Call for support for victims of domestic violence

The provision of a Refuge Centre in Cavan/Monaghan for victims of domestic abuse must be a matter of priority a local elected representative has said.

Fianna Fáil Deputy Brendan Smith made a request to Minister for Children, Disability, Equality and Integration, Roderic O'Gorman, to progress provision of a Refuge Centre in Cavan/Monaghan for victims of domestic abuse in a Parliamentary Question.

In his reply Minister O'Gorman stated that Tusla is undertaking a review of emergency accommodation nationwide and this will assess the current and requisite distribution of safe emergency accommodation. He added that there are consultations with stakeholders including service users and a report will be published by Tusla in April this year.

Deputy Smith said it's time for action on the matter: “Unfortunately since early 2020 and with the onset of the Covid pandemic there has been an increase in domestic violence and adequate supports need to be put in place for all families who are experiencing such difficulties.

“At present there is no dedicated Refuge Centre in Cavan or Monaghan and I urge Tusla along with the Department to ensure the provision of such a Centre with additional supports and services at local level,” concluded Deputy Smith.