"Invaluable work."

A new women's refuge for domestic violence victims is set to open in Dublin. The space, located in south Dublin's Rathcoole, will provide additional accommodation for victims of domestic abuse and their families. It will include five units of emergency refuge family accommodation, allowing for up to five adults and 15 children. The refurbishment of the building is currently underway. It is expected to be completed by the end of this month. Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr Katherine Zappone, confirmed the news today in a progress report including an increase in funding to domestic violence services and the recruitment of additional outreach workers. “As Minister I have seen at first hand the invaluable work of frontline agencies supporting women and children targeted by domestic, sexual and gender-based violence," she said "Since I became Minister, I have secured year-on-year increases in funding for Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based Violence (DSGBV) services. The additional investment in these services this year facilitates better access and the provision of enhanced supports and services to victims." Domestic, sexual, and gender based violence services received funding of €25.3 million in 2019, according to Minister Zappone. The increase funding should also allow for a reduction in counselling waiting times for victims of sexual violence, as well as the national roll-out of a healing programme for children who have been impacted by domestic abuse. “A whole of government response to domestic, sexual and gender-based violence is required to ensure the delivery of co-ordinated services," she said. "Tusla is responsible for the provision of services and supports to victims of domestic and sexual violence. "A number of other government departments and State agencies, including the Departments of Justice and Equality and Housing, Planning and Local Government, have a key role to play in ensuring holistic services are provided to victims of domestic and sexual violence." Outreach workers will be recruited for locations in Galway, Carlow, Cork, Wicklow, and Dublin.