Room at the Inn for DV victims

Progress is being made on the delivery of new domestic violence accommodation across Cavan and Monaghan, with a site identified for a dedicated regional refuge in Monaghan and the location of several “safe homes” expected to be formalised by 2026.

Funding is already approved for the 12-unit domestic violence refuge to serve both counties, with the facility set to be based in Monaghan Town. The number of units represents an increase from the eight initially planned.

Safe Ireland CEO Mary McDermott said discussions are continuing with Monaghan County Council about how best to advance the project to its next phase.

“We have identified a site in Monaghan and have been speaking with officials to identify what needs to be done to get the project management in place,” she told The Anglo-Celt last week.

Ms McDermott also confirmed that the organisation she leads has been in talks with Cavan County Council regarding the provision of safe homes for victims of domestic abuse.

“With safe homes, the ambition is to go out to tender in the New Year,” she explained. “It’s important for people to understand that this isn’t just a question of having a house. These buildings must be secure, because we know perpetrators pursue victims.”

Her comments come in the wake of two cases heard at the recent Cavan Circuit Court sittings, with evidence given in relation to shocking levels of violence meted out by men against their then partners.

In one case a young woman told how a five-month relationship with her former boyfriend “destroyed” her life, leaving her with lasting physical and psychological trauma.

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