Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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296. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if he will consider amending the supplementary welfare allowance policy to allow referrals from An Garda Síochána to be accepted for fast-tracking emergency financial supports, including rent supplement, for victims of domestic violence; if he will review the current policy excluding Garda referrals in light of evidence that many victims contact Gardaí first; and the steps his will take to ensure all victims can access timely and lifesaving financial assistance. [49437/25]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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The accommodation needs of victims of domestic violence are met through a joined-up service delivery model provided by Tusla with the close involvement of the various housing authorities nationwide.

Access to Rent Supplement can be provided on referral by Tusla or by prescribed Tusla-funded service providers. This provides victims of domestic violence with a fast track approval and screening process with a simplified means test to get immediate access to Rent Supplement so that they are not prevented from leaving their home because of financial concerns.

Allowing referrals for access to Rent Supplement from An Garda Síochána has been considered previously, in consultation with the Gardaí. However, given the number of domestic violence callouts received by An Garda Síochána, it is acknowledged that the role of An Garda Síochána is that of first responder. Therefore, it was agreed that referrals would continue to be processed through existing channels.

Additional Needs Payments are also available to assist those, whether referred via the protocol or not, who have essential expenses, such as rent deposits, rent in advance and household bills, that they cannot pay from their weekly income.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.