Written Answers Nos. 1-30
11. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration his plans to ensure that all asylum seekers in State-contracted accommodation will have appropriate, safe, secure, and State-provided accommodation prior to the planned withdrawal of the current accommodation service in August 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35601/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI understand this question refers to the wind-down of state-contracted commercial accommodation for beneficiaries of temporary protection fleeing the war in Ukraine. There are no plans for the withdrawal of accommodation services for International Protection applicants.
Ireland will continue to support people from Ukraine, and to fulfil its obligations under the Temporary Protection Directive in respect of housing supports and social assistance under Article 13(1), while the Directive is in effect.
Proposals have been developed for Government in line with the EU Council Recommendation for a co-ordinated approach to transition people out of Temporary Protection across the EU. This includes proposals to phase out state-funded accommodation, provided to people from Ukraine since 2022.
Ireland’s state-funded accommodation model for people from Ukraine is in excess of that offered across the EU and of what is available to other people living in Ireland.
Any approved changes to this accommodation model would be introduced on a phased basis, with information and support provided to those affected. The proposals will also consider ongoing supports for people whose specific circumstances may make independent living challenging.
Accommodation will continue to be provided prior to the implementation of these proposals and significant notice will be given to persons affected by the changes.
The number of people living in state-provided accommodation has reduced considerably over recent years, as people source their own accommodation or move away. The Government has actively supported these moves to independence and greater integration.
These proposals are subject to Government decision. Officials in my Department are currently finalising operational arrangements for this wind-down and these arrangements will be announced in due course.
13. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of burglaries reported in County Mayo in each of the past ten years and to date in 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35066/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs part of Budget 2026, Government provided an unprecedented €2.74 billion to An Garda Síochána to support them in preventing crime and keeping our communities safe.
According to the most recent Recorded Crime Detection statistics issued by the Central Statistics Office there has been a steady decrease in the number of burglaries and related offences in Mayo in recent years - falling 79% since 2015.
This has been brought about as a result of the success that An Garda Síochána have had in reducing and preventing burglaries through Operation Thor.
Since Operation Thor commenced, burglary and related offences have declined significantly. Nationally, the level of residential burglaries during the winter months, October to March, has fallen by a remarkable 75% since it started in 2015.
While every burglary is traumatic for the victims concerned, it is to the credit of An Garda Síochána and the general public who have responded so positively to the crime prevention advice provided, that there has been such a dramatic fall in this type of crime.
Under Operation Thor, the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau co-ordinates and supports Divisional resources with intelligence led-interventions that target organised crime gangs and repeat offenders, particularly involved in rural burglaries and crimes.
Gardaí conduct high-visibility patrols and check-points at specific times of day in known ‘hot-spots’ to reduce the movement of burglars, gathering intelligence on known offenders and regularly communicating with the public about crime prevention measures.
An Garda Síochána also provide the public with information and guidance on steps that can be taken by home owners to secure property and deter crime. The local Garda Crime Prevention Officers provide practical guidance to a range of people and businesses on deterring crime including burglary and theft.
16. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration given that the prison estate is currently operating at 120% to 125% capacity, the work he is doing to reduce overcrowding within our prisons. [35603/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am acutely aware of the capacity constraints in our prisons and the resulting challenges faced by those who work and live in our prisons. The Irish Prison Service (IPS) must accept into custody all people committed to prison by the courts and has no control over the numbers committed to custody at any given time.
I am pursuing a dual approach to address the issue of prison overcrowding by both increasing prison capacity and pursuing further measures to support increased use of non-custodial sanctions.
Since 2024, 232 spaces have been constructed across the Prison Estate, with 126 coming in 2024 and 106 in 2025. There are plans in place to build another 65 spaces in 2026.
On conclusion of the NDP Review in July 2025, I secured a record capital investment of €528 million from 2026 to 2030, of which €495 million is being invested in building projects to further increase capacity, with an overall target of delivering over 1,500 spaces by 2031.
This will include a large extension to the existing Cork Prison, a new block in Wheatfield, and an additional block extension at Midlands prison. This is in addition to spaces created at Castlerea, Mountjoy and the Dóchas Centre.
Measures to support non-custodial sanctions are as important as building new prison capacity. Legislative changes, including increasing the maximum community service hours to 480 and requiring the judiciary to consider community service for sentences of two years or less, are included in the Criminal Law and Civil Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2026 which is currently before the Dáil.
Budget 2026 also provides for a 13% increase in funding for the Probation Service. This additional funding will be used to increase the use of supervised community sanctions in the criminal courts, expand restorative justice services, and expand supervised temporary release schemes nationally.
The Programme for Government commits to implement electronic tagging for appropriate categories of people, including those on Temporary Release and on bail. Under Budget 2026 funding of €2.1 million was allocated for the project to allow for staffing, procurement, and other set-up costs. The tender closed recently and I expect that the contract for the pilot will be awarded in the near future.
17. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of gardaí stationed in Clare-Tipperary division in each of the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35700/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Garda Commissioner is responsible for the distribution and allocation of Gardaí throughout the State. While I do not direct the Commissioner in these matters, and nor would it be appropriate to do so, I am assured that the resourcing of each Garda Division is fully considered within the overall context of the needs and requirements of Garda Divisions throughout the country.
I am informed that, as of March 2026, there were 661 Gardaí assigned to the Clare/Tipperary Division. At the end of 2025, there were 665 Gardaí assigned; at the end of 2024, 659 and at the end of 2023, 674. Prior to 2023 Clare and Tipperary were not within the same Division, however I can confirm that in 2022 there were 391 Gardaí assigned to Tipperary Division and in 2021 the figure stood at 398.
As Minister, I am fully committed to ensuring that An Garda Síochána has the resources it needs. As part of Budget 2026 I provided an unprecedented €2.74 billion to support recruitment, training and staffing. This will support recruitment of up to 1,000 Gardai, 200 more Garda staff and additional members of the Garda Reserve.
While I fully appreciate that all communities, including communities in Tipperary want to see more Gardaí in their towns and villages, I am pleased to report that recruitment into An Garda Síochána is gathering real pace and that the Government’s plan to increase the number of Gardaí is working. The overall Garda Workforce has increased from 15,980 in 2016 to 18,454 in 2026.
Cohorts of over 200 trainees are now entering Templemore regularly. In the first intake of this year, 215 recruits entered Templemore. 201 Trainees entered the College on 4 May and to-date in 2026, 360 new Gardaí have already attested from Templemore.
A new Garda recruitment campaign also launched this week and will be open until 3 June. This will ensure that we have a robust and sustainable flow of recruits into Templemore.
I expect Garda numbers will exceed the previous record high of 14,758, in March 2020, this year and that the number of Gardaí will grow beyond 15,000 over the coming years.
I am determined to ensure that we have a steady pipeline of new recruits into the Garda college so that we can see more Gardaí assigned all around the country. To that end, I was pleased to launch, with the Commissioner, a new Garda recruitment campaign last Monday. I am sure the Deputy will join me in encouraging people to consider a career in An Garda Síochána.
18. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if he will confirm the number of reported suspected drink-spiking cases throughout the country; the number that were investigated; the number that were brought before the courts; the number that were convicted in the past five years, by year, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35795/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraSpiking is a crime that preys on vulnerability, that undermines consent and that can have devastating consequences for victims. As Minister I am committed to fostering a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of domestic, sexual, and gender-based violence (DSGBV).
The Programme for Government includes a commitment to introduce stronger laws to combat the spiking of drinks.
Spiking a person’s drink or spiking someone by injection are, in effect, poisoning, and are criminal offences under the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act 1997, that can result in a three-year prison term.
Depending on the nature of the substance that is administered, it may be possible to charge a perpetrator with endangerment under section 13 of the Non-Fatal Offences against the Person Act 1997. This provides that it is an offence to intentionally or recklessly engage in conduct which creates a substantial risk of death or serious harm to another. The offence of endangerment carries a maximum penalty of 7 years imprisonment.
An Garda Síochána takes all reports of spiking seriously and thoroughly investigates to determine the exact nature of each incident including results of toxicology reports in each case. I would advise any victims of similar incidents or any form of spiking to come forward and report to local Gardaí.
According to published data from An Garda Síochána, the count of incidents reported was 107 in 2022 and 52 in 2023. The total for 2024 was 61 reported incidents, with 58 reported incidents last year, each of which was investigated.
I’m informed by the Courts Service that there is no specific offence on the statute book for spiking. As a result, there is no offence code on their case management systems which they could use to run a report, and therefore there is no data available in relation to spiking.
All victims of crime are dealt with by Gardaí in line with: www.garda.ie/en/victim-services/garda-victim-service/victims-charter.pdf
19. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the resources that have been allocated to the Cork Garda divisional drug unit, given the increase in drug-related crime and gang activity in Cork city; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34352/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraTackling the scourge of drug dealing and targeting the actions of organised crime groups, who inflict intimidation, violence and misery on families and communities across Ireland is a top priority for the Government and my Department.
To assist with that goal, I am advised by the Garda Authorities that there are 45 members assigned to the Cork Division Drugs Unit, with 27 assigned to Cork City.
I am assured that An Garda Síochána maintains a coordinated and effective approach in protecting communities, individuals and their families from the harm and pain caused by drug abuse, associated violence and intimidation.
An Garda Síochána continues to implement an enhanced national anti-drugs strategy through Operation Tara. The focus of this operation is to disrupt, dismantle and prosecute drug trafficking networks, at all levels - international, national and local. It extends to anyone involved in the importation, distribution, cultivation, production, local sale and supply of controlled drugs.
At a national level, the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau leads in tackling all forms of drug trafficking and the supply of illicit drugs in Ireland. Collaboration at an inter-agency and international level remain key in tackling this issue. Given the global nature of the drugs trade, international law enforcement co-operation remains a key element in the overall response.
Drug Related Intimidation is also a high priority for An Garda Síochána. Nominated Garda Inspectors are available throughout the country through the Drugs Related Intimidation Reporting Programme to assist victims of intimidation. An Inspector attached to Gurranabraher station is the nominated officer for Cork city.
Sustained action by An Garda Síochána continues unabated, bringing significant convictions and ongoing seizures of drugs, firearms and ammunition. I can assure the Deputy that I will continue to do everything I can to support Gardaí in this regard.
20. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration further to the recent roll-out of high-visibility policing in south and west Dublin, if he will consider a further roll-out of this model to districts K and H, including the urban villages across north Dublin, including Santry, Beaumont, Finglas and Ballymun; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35729/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of Garda business under section 33 of the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024, including the allocation and deployment of Garda resources. Decisions regarding patrols, including the rollout and expansion of the high-visibility policing plan, are operational matters for the Commissioner and local Garda management.
I engage regularly with the Commissioner to ensure our Gardaí have the resources they need. The Garda Vote in Budget 2026 includes unprecedented funding of €2.74 billion which will support the continued recruitment of Garda personnel. This allocation demonstrates the Government’s commitment to ensuring An Garda Síochána has provision for the equipment, technology, facilities, fleet and personnel it needs to carry out vital policing work.
Just under 800 trainees entered the Garda College last year, the highest number since 2018. I am determined to ensure that we have a steady pipeline of new recruits into the Garda college so that we can see more Gardaí assigned to the Dublin Metropolitan Region and, indeed, all around the country.
Along with the Commissioner, I launched a new Garda recruitment campaign earlier this week and encourage anyone considering a career in An Garda Síochána to apply.
The areas mentioned by the Deputy cover the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) West and North Garda Divisions. As of the end of March, there were 733 Gardaí and 63 staff assigned to the DMR West Division, while there were 753 Gardaí and 70 staff assigned to the DMR North Division.
So far this year, 75 Probationer Gardaí who attested were assigned to DMR West and 63 Probationer Gardaí who attested were assigned to DMR North.
An Garda Siochana introduced a High Visibility Policing (HVP) Plan in Dublin City Centre in March 2025. This initiative has since been rolled out to Cork and Limerick City Centres, as well as areas of South Dublin, including Tallaght and Dún Laoghaire. The Garda Commissioner is committed to continuing this rollout to other areas of the Dublin Metropolitan Region, and to other areas nationwide. Ongoing Garda recruitment is supporting this commitment.
Feedback from business and the public on the High Visibility Policing approach in Dublin and the other cities where it has been introduced, has been very positive and I look forward to it being rolled out to other areas into the future.
21. Deputy Naoise Ó Muirí asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration for an update on the progress of the national cyber security Bill 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35774/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Cyber Security Bill transposes the Network and Information Systems Directive (NIS2) into Irish law. NIS2 significantly enhances the cyber security supervision and enforcement regime that is already in place in the State and the enactment of the National Cyber Security Bill is a priority for myself and the Government.
The Joint Oireachtas Committee on Justice, Home Affairs and Migration published its Report on Pre-Legislative Scrutiny of the General Scheme on 18 February 2026 and this is currently being considered by my Department. Officials continue to work with the Office of Parliamentary Council on the drafting of the Bill, which is at a very advanced stage. I expect to be in a position to bring a Memo to Government shortly seeking approval to publish the Bill.
In anticipation of having the legislation in place and to ensure that Ireland is ready to fully implement the directive on the day of enactment of the Bill, we have taken significant steps to ensure that various implementing measures are in place. This includes a robust approach to sectoral regulation for the Directive with the designation of National Competent Authorities to carry out enforcement and supervision. National Competent Authorities are already undertaking significant preparations to take on these new functions.
The National Cyber Security Bill will also put the National Cyber Security Centre on a statutory footing. Within the NCSC, a National Cyber Security Incident Response Team or CSIRT-IE, an obligation under NIS2 has also been stood up.
22. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration whether his Department or An Garda Síochána has examined the feasibility of modernising the current physical firearms certificate system through the introduction of a secure digital licensing system accessible only to authorised members of An Garda Síochána; whether any assessment has been undertaken regarding data protection, security or privacy considerations associated with physical firearm certificates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35710/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAn Garda Síochána is the competent authority for the licensing and possession of firearms within the State. My Department is the competent authority for maintenance of the Register of Firearms Dealers and the import and export (within the EU) of firearms and ammunition.
I am advised by An Garda Síochána that they currently operate the licensing and possession of firearms through a secure digital system, the PULSE database. This system is only accessible by members of An Garda Síochána and the relevant staff within An Garda Síochána.
When an applicant is successfully granted a firearms certificate by a licensing officer, they are issued with a physical firearms certificate issued by An Garda Síochána. The onus is on the individual to ensure the security and privacy of their firearms certificate. All relevant records of the firearms certificate are digitally stored within the PULSE database.
I am further advised that the PULSE database which is the digital system in which firearms licensing is conducted is in compliance with the relevant Data Protection requirements as set out by the Data Protection Act 2018.
Reform of the firearms licensing system has been under consideration for a number of years, and extensive consultation has been undertaken.
There is regular and structured engagement between my Department and firearms users and I am informed that the most recent engagement took place on the 28th April 2026, where more than twenty representatives of the firearms community and firearms stakeholder organisations attended a meeting with my officials. This was the fourth in a series of meetings that have taken place since 18 September 2025.
The stakeholders attending these meetings include several from representative organisations, experts in technical areas of firearms and members of An Garda Síochána’s Firearms Policy Unit. I am informed that the reform of the current licensing system is one of the issues being discussed at these meetings.
23. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the specific measures within the zero tolerance strategy that experienced 'major delivery issues', including the research and data plan on the scale of sexual violence and the development of referral pathways for survivors; the revised timelines for delivery of these measures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34693/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government and I are fully committed to the implementation of the Zero Tolerance Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence. The Strategy runs to end-2026 and delivery is being actively accelerated across all areas.
The Third Progress Report on implementation, which I published on 31 March 2026, notes that six actions, representing 6.32% of all actions in the Implementation Plan, are reporting ‘major delivery issues’. It is important to note that this indicates delay relative to original timelines, rather than actions being discontinued or deprioritised.
These actions include a national framework for working with perpetrators through co-design, a research and data plan, multi-agency approaches to offender management, prison-based referral pathways and interventions for individuals with a history of domestic violence.
On research and data, significant progress has been made in strengthening the evidence base on the scale of DSGBV. The CSO Sexual Violence Survey, developed with my Department and published in 2023, provides the national prevalence baseline and remains a key reference point for policy.
The CSO is also working with Cuan and my Department on a new EU-aligned Gender-Based Violence survey under Eurostat coordination, which will strengthen official statistics and ensure international comparability. The survey is expected to go live in late 2027, with results in 2028.
While Cuan has delivered a significant range of research outputs to date, one 'major delivery issue' identified in the report relates to the wider Cuan research and data plan which has been delayed due to staffing and project constraints within the research function. These issues are being addressed through mitigation measures: Cuan has developed a research commissioning plan and established a research advisory committee to strengthen delivery and oversight.
In relation to referral pathways and supports for victims and survivors, significant work continues across Departments and specialist services, including sustained funding for frontline services and the development of a national service delivery plan to strengthen and standardise pathways.
Departments and agencies continue to progress implementation through established governance structures under Cuan, with delivery being accelerated across all areas in the remaining period of the Strategy.
24. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration to set out in detail the number of prisons that have a medical consultant who attends the prison on a weekly or monthly basis to provide care and treatment to prisoners who have contracted an infectious disease; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35668/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have been advised by officials in the Irish Prison Service that all people committed to prison undergo a comprehensive medical assessment on committal. People are asked about their history and risk factors for HIV, Hepatitis and sexually transmitted infections and can be offered testing if appropriate. Infectious disease screening is available on request in all prisons and is managed within prison primary care in line with community practices. Conditions which exceed the capacity of any primary care team, including prison primary care, can be referred for secondary and tertiary care via the HSE.
There are weekly consultant-led in-reach Genito-urinary medicine and Infectious Disease clinics at Cloverhill and Wheatfield Prisons. There is also a weekly in-reach nurse-led hepatology clinic at Cloverhill, Wheatfield and Mountjoy Prisons and the Dóchas Centre, dealing largely with Hepatitis diagnosis and management. A nurse led in-reach service for Hepatitis is provided to Cork Prison every three to six weeks, and Limerick Prison on an ‘as required’ basis. There is an in-reach nurse-led HIV clinic every three to six months on an ‘as required’ basis at the Dóchas Centre.
As such, the only closed prisons without an in-reach service at present are Arbour Hill, Castlerea, Midlands and Portlaoise Prisons. The introduction of a permanent GP to Castlerea Prison recently will enhance the provision of care for prisoners with infectious diseases and the need for this service in Arbour Hill Prison is deemed low at the current time. In-reach services are currently unavailable to people in custody in Midlands and Portlaoise Prisons as this service is not available through Portlaoise General Hospital at the current time. Work is ongoing to consider alternative services for these prison locations.
Given the increased prevalence of infectious diseases amongst the prison population and the risks associated with the spread of infectious diseases in a custodial environment, prison primary care teams remain vigilant and diligently diagnose and manage cases of infectious diseases.
The Irish Prison Service is satisfied that there is an adequate level of infectious disease care available to people in custody and that there are appropriate safeguards in place for early detection should the needs of people in custody or the risks posed by infectious diseases increase.
25. Deputy James Geoghegan asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration when the finalised code of practice on public CCTV, currently being developed by An Garda Síochána, will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35127/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraCommunity safety is a top priority for my Department and everyone has the right to be safe and to feel safe in their communities. CCTV in public places has a role in giving people a greater sense of security. It is also effective in deterring criminal activity and antisocial behaviour and in assisting with the investigation of crime.
The Garda Síochána (Recording Devices) Act 2023 provides for a new regime for the authorisation and operation of CCTV schemes. Part 5 of that Act, when commenced, will introduce these new arrangements.
Part 8 of the Act stipulates the requirement for a new Code of Practice on Public Closed Circuit Television (CCTV).
The aim of the Code of Practice is to provide further detail on the general operation of Public CCTV.
It also aims to ensure Public CCTV is used only for policing purposes and the prevention, investigation, detection and prosecution of criminal offences.
An Garda Síochána launched a public consultation for a draft Code of Practice on Public Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) on the 27 January 2026.
In addition to seeking the views of the public, the Garda Commissioner, as required by the Act, formally sought input from me, as Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, the Policing & Community Safety Authority, Fiosrú, the Data Protection Commission, and the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission. This consultation was also extended to the Local Government Management Agency.
The Public and Statutory consultations are now completed, and the code is finalised. The code will not commence until after the enactment of the Garda Síochána (Recording Devices) (Amendment) Bill 2025, which will amend the transitional arrangements for existing CCTV applications, submitted but not yet approved under the existing regime. Upon enactment of the Bill, An Garda Síochána will forward the Code of Practice to me for formal commencement, via Ministerial order.
26. Deputy Joe Neville asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if his Department has an estimated projected savings for the State under the new TARA system for IPAS applicant sorting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35771/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe International Protection Act was passed into law last month and gives effect to the EU Migration and Asylum Pact. The Pact will provide a fair, sustainable and efficient asylum procedure. The new rules will take effect on 12 June 2026 and my Department continues to prepare in advance of this date.
While projections for future levels of international protections applications are uncertain and impacted by a range of factors, the introduction of the Pact is expected to better respond, firstly by reducing secondary movement through the EU, and secondly through the increased use of significantly accelerated processes.
This faster decision-making means that successful applicants will be granted international protection sooner, and those whose applications are refused can be returned to their country of origin sooner.
In relation to processing costs to the State, this will be settled annually in the course of engagement on the Estimates process, as is currently the case.
In the medium to long-term this investment will show a return in the form of decreasing annual costs because of the improved, faster processing it will enable, thereby reducing the time an applicant remains in the system, and reducing significant accommodation and other costs.
27. Deputy Cathy Bennett asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the timeframe in which refuges will open in both Cavan and Monaghan. [35788/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra64. Deputy Cathy Bennett asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the current number of domestic violence refuge spaces within the State; the number of safe home units; and the number of each he intends to be operational by year's end. [35787/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 27 and 64 together.
This Government has taken unprecedented actions to confront the scourge of domestic, sexual, and gender-based violence (DSGBV). This includes 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.
At the onset of the zero-tolerance strategy, there were 49 safe homes and 141 DV refuge units in place. By the end of 2026, the target is to increase this to 94 safe homes,193 refuge units, with an additional 50 units under construction. All refuges scheduled to open in 2026 are on track, including 12 units in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown expected to be operational in Q3 2026, and Cuan anticipates meeting its refuge targets.
Cuan remains committed to collaborating with key stakeholder to explore additional opportunities for developing DV accommodation, especially in areas where such facilities are currently lacking, while also considering interim refuges and alternative accommodation for those fleeing domestic violence.
The Cavan-Monaghan region is listed as a priority area for refuge development under Zero Tolerance. The Capital Assistance Scheme (CAS) Stage 1 application for a refuge site in Monaghan was approved by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage last October. Work is ongoing towards submitting a Stage 2 application, which will include further detail and costings on the full extent of works that will be required. The CAS process takes on average 75 weeks with construction typically taking 15 – 18 months. Safe Ireland is the lead Approved Housing Body on this development.
This new refuge facility will include 12 independent units of refuge accommodation, along with essential ancillary services, thereby strengthening domestic violence support in the region. I am advised that Cuan is currently considering future options for potential refuge provision in Cavan, in parallel with progression of the refuge site identified in Monaghan.
Nationally, Cuan funds 78 DSGBV organisations, including 20 domestic violence refuges, and Cuan has advised that the following breaks down safe accommodation units, by county, as of May 2026.
|
DV Accommodation by County |
DV Refuge Units |
Safe Home Units |
Total DV Accommodation |
|
Dublin - City |
17 |
16 |
33 |
|
Dublin - Dun Laoghaire |
0 |
5 |
5 |
|
Dublin – Fingal |
10 |
0 |
10 |
|
Dublin - South Dublin |
11 |
3 |
14 |
|
Carlow |
0 |
2 |
2 |
|
Cavan |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Clare |
6 |
2 |
8 |
|
Cork |
11 |
3 |
14 |
|
Donegal |
4 |
10 |
14 |
|
Galway |
10 |
0 |
10 |
|
Kerry |
6 |
0 |
6 |
|
Kildare |
4 |
2 |
6 |
|
Kilkenny |
7 |
3 |
10 |
|
Laois |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Leitrim |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Limerick |
16 |
0 |
16 |
|
Longford |
0 |
1 |
1 |
|
Louth |
17 |
0 |
17 |
|
Mayo |
5 |
0 |
5 |
|
Meath |
8 |
0 |
8 |
|
Monaghan |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Offaly |
0 |
3 |
3 |
|
Roscommon |
0 |
2 |
2 |
|
Sligo |
0 |
2 |
2 |
|
Tipperary |
4 |
2 |
6 |
|
Waterford |
12 |
4 |
16 |
|
Westmeath |
5 |
0 |
5 |
|
Wexford |
12 |
0 |
12 |
|
Wicklow |
7 |
0 |
7 |
|
Total |
172 |
60 |
232 |
28. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration to provide an update on plans to construct a new prison at Thornton Hall, including the timeline for delivery, in light of ongoing prison overcrowding and the long-standing delays associated with the project. [35707/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am acutely aware of the capacity constraints in our prisons and the challenges faced by those who work and live in our prisons as a result. The Irish Prison Service (IPS) must accept into custody all people committed to prison by the courts and has no control over the numbers committed to custody at any given time.
Since 2024, 232 spaces have been constructed across the Prison Estate, with 126 spaces delivered in 2024 and 106 in 2025. There are plans to build another 65 spaces in 2026.
In addition, Government has allocated funding for a significant building programme across the prison estate. On conclusion of the NDP Review in July 2025, I secured a record capital investment of €67.9 million for 2026, as part of a total investment of €528 million from 2026 to 2030, of which €495 million is being invested in building projects to further increase capacity.
The IPS is delivering one of the most significant capital programmes in the justice sector, reflecting the Government’s commitment to increase prison capacity and modernise the estate in line with population growth, with an overall target of delivering over 1,500 spaces by 2031.
This will include a large extension to the existing Cork Prison on the site of the old, decommissioned Cork Prison, a new block in Wheatfield, and an additional block extension at Midlands prison. This is in addition to spaces at Castlerea, Mountjoy and the Dóchas Centre, where an extension to Rowan House is expected to accommodate 50 women prisoners.
This record capital allocation will allow for work to start to plan and develop a new prison on the Thornton site in North County Dublin. A master plan for the site is planned to be developed in 2026, determining its future use as a combined site for use by the IPS, International Protection Accommodation Services and An Garda Síochána with plans to commence works in 2030.
29. Deputy Naoise Ó Muirí asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the implementation plan for the Family Courts Act 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35773/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraOn 22 April 2026, I published the Implementation Plan for the Family Courts Act 2024. The Plan will result in some of the most significant reforms of the family justice system in the history of the state. The Family Courts Act 2024 is a key component of my Department's Family Justice Strategy and contains a number of provisions designed to make the family court process more focussed on the needs of children as well as user-friendly, safer and less costly.
The Act provides for the establishment of specialist family courts as divisions within the existing court structures, namely a Family High Court, a Family Circuit Court and a Family District Court, each dealing with family law matters as appropriate to its jurisdiction. Judges who have specialist training or experience in dealing with family law matters will be assigned to the Family Court divisions on a full-time basis, providing for improved levels of judicial expertise in family law matters as well as the streamlining of proceedings.
The Implementation Plan provides for a phased approach and sets out the first steps necessary to implement the Act. It is envisioned that implementation will proceed in three phases, allowing time and space to engage with stakeholders, evaluate progress, and identify any issues as they arise. A phased approach, which provides for both regional and procedural elements to commence at relevant points during the entire implementation process, has been deemed the most practical solution.
Phase 1 will commence in January 2027. Three locations will be initially selected to commence operating as family courts in the new system. Locations will require a Family District Court, a Family Circuit Court, and a Family High Court. Judges with specific expertise in dealing with families and family law matters will be assigned to these first court locations on a full-time basis. During this phase, the next set of locations will be identified, training will be delivered to targeted staff, and information and awareness campaigns will be conducted with practitioners. A comprehensive evaluation will be conducted to ensure challenges are addressed promptly.
Phase 2 is projected to commence in January 2028. Additional family court divisions will be added to those operational from Phase 1. Preparations will continue for the final roll-out to remaining locations in the third phase.
Phase 3 will see the full implementation of the Act and is envisaged to commence from January 2029. Additional family court divisions will be added to those operational from previous phases and additional judges with supporting staff will be assigned to family courts on a full-time basis. During the final phase, any last repeals and replacement provisions provided for in legislation will be prepared and commenced.
I intend to publish an updated plan before the end of 2026, which will set out a more complete roadmap for implementation. The updated plan will specify the first locations, the resources required for establishment, staffing, and training for the first operational phases, and greater detail on the remaining phases.
30. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of gardaí in County Meath; if he is aware that County Meath has, for years, had the lowest number of gardaí per population in the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34344/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and allocation of Garda resources. I am assured by the Commissioner that when allocating Garda resources, consideration is given to commitments and undertakings outlined in the Annual Policing Plan. The requirements of all Garda Divisions nationwide are also taken into account, which include:
• Local and national crime trends and workloads
• Policing arrangements and operational strategies
• Local population and trends, geographical area and size
• Transfer applications, including welfare, personnel issues and concerns.
Under Budget 2026, I secured record funding of €2.74 billion for An Garda Síochána to support recruitment and staffing. This will support recruitment of up to 1,000 Gardai, 200 more Garda staff and additional members of the Garda Reserve.
Significant initiatives have been taken to boost recruitment and as reflected in the number of applications received to join An Garda Síochána, the numbers entering the Garda College, just under 800 in 2025 we are already seeing the impact of these changes.
Recruitment into An Garda Síochána has gathered real momentum and I am determined to ensure that we have a steady pipeline of new recruits into the Garda college so that we can see more Gardaí assigned all around the country. Together with the Garda Commissioner, I launched this year's recruitment campaign on Monday, 11 May. The campaign runs until 3 June and I encourage anyone who has an interest in a career as a Garda to apply through publicjobs.ie.
I am informed that as of March 2026, there are 557 Gardaí assigned to the Meath/Westmeath division. This includes 321 Gardaí assigned to the Meath South and Meath North Community Engagement Areas, which include Ashbourne, Kells, Navan and Trim.
As the Deputy will be aware, the Government is committed to recruiting up to 5,000 Gardaí over its term in office. I am confident that with these increased numbers, more Gardaí will be assigned to the Meath/Westmeath Division.
