Tackling domestic, sexual and gender-based violence is a priority for the Government. The Programme for Government includes a number of commitments in this regard. Establishing a zero-tolerance approach to domestic, sexual, and gender-based violence is essential for safeguarding individuals and promoting a safer society.
My Department already has provisions in place in the Rent Supplement Scheme to assist those fleeing domestic violence. In such circumstances the standard Rent Supplement means test does not apply for an initial three-month period. Access to this support is instead via a fast-track approval process to assist with immediate accommodation needs.
While many of the Programme for Government commitments fall within the remit the Minister for Justice and other Ministers, this is an issue that requires a whole of Government approach. For that reason, the Programme for Government included a commitment to “examine how the social protection system can better support people fleeing domestic violence.”
My Department will progress this work and officials will engage with stakeholders and will take on board lessons from other jurisdictions to deliver on this commitment.
In respect of travel supports, my Department has met with Cuan on a number of occasions as well a meeting with SafeIreland, Women’s Aid and the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre to understand the issues on the ground for domestic violence victims in relation to travel. There are currently schemes available and being used to support victims of Domestic Violence in relation to travel, through Supplementary Welfare Allowance, Additional Needs Payments and weekly Travel Supplements. My department is currently examining these schemes with the organisations referenced to ensure that they offer the supports required in a speedy and meaningful way and that there is good awareness and signposting of supports. There will be further engagement in the coming weeks to address this issue based on feedback from the organisations. Any new proposals emerging will be considered as part of that engagement.
