Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 January 2026
210. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration his Department's plans to address the need for a domestic abuse refuge centre in County Laois; to provide a timeline for such a centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5965/26]
View answerThis Government has taken unprecedented actions to tackle the scourge of domestic, sexual, and gender-based violence (DSGBV), including by increasing funding to almost €80 million under Budget 2026, to support Cuan and services working to tackle DSGBV and the implementation of the Zero Tolerance Strategy. The increased funding for Cuan and community organisations that support victims and survivors will accelerate the delivery of safe accommodation, while also providing stronger supports for victims. Cuan is collaborating with various stakeholders, including domestic violence services, Approved Housing Bodies, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, the Housing Agency and Local Authorities to facilitate local action and support service development and delivery of safe accommodation and ancillary services.
I am informed by Cuan that in 2025 the number of domestic violence refuge units increased by 13, of which four are located in Louth and nine in Dublin, bringing the total number to 172. A further 9 units are being developed in Dublin and are expected to be operational early this year. A 12-unit refuge located in Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown Council area is scheduled to be completed and become operational later this year. This will bring the total number of refuge units to 193 by the end of the year. Furthermore in 2026, Cuan is also working towards having a minimum of 50 new refuge units under construction nationally, across multiple sites. Last year, the number of Safe Home units increased by 8. This has increased total Safe Home capacity to 60. Cuan is working to increase that capacity to 94 this year.
With regard to the provision of a refuge centre in County Laois, I am informed by Cuan that, while a site has been secured, Capital Assistance Scheme stage 1 funding was not approved by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage (DHLGH). Cuan is working with the service and all key stakeholders to identify an alternative Approved Housing Body (AHB) partner. I am advised that there are ongoing meetings with key stakeholders on this matter.
