Fianna Fáil TD for Carlow, Jennifer Murnane O’Connor has called on the Minister for Justice to detail the enhanced supports Budget 2022 will provide to tackle domestic, sexual and gender-based violence.
Following Deputy Murnane O’Connor’s question to the Minister, the Carlow TD commented, “In recent times we have sadly seen a number of reported cases of domestic, sexual and gender-based abuse throughout our communities. I have been informed that as part of Budget 2022, €13m has been allocated to tackle these crimes and support and assist victims.
“As part of this, an additional €1.1m will be used to put in place a legal advice and legal aid service in court for victims of sexual violence and €1 million is being provided to the Gardai to refurbish and upgrade the Divisional Protective Service Units. This will allow for better support and protection for vulnerable victims.”
The Carlow TD continued: “Currently, a Third National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based Violence plan is also in development. This plan will outline how the government will radically improve services and supports for victims.
“Along with this initiative, government is in the process of implementing Supporting a Victim’s Journey, which is a plan to help victims and vulnerable witnesses in sexual violence cases. It will reform the criminal justice system at every point a victim comes into contact with it, while a national public awareness campaign on consent will further strengthen work to prevent these crimes.”
Deputy Murnane O’Connor added: “An increase of €41m for Tusla under Budget 2022 was also secured, which includes the budget for funding organisations that deliver frontline services, including the funding of refuge spaces.”
