A new domestic violence refuge is set to be constructed in Dundalk, Co Louth, following the allocation of Government funding, reports RTE.
The €6.5m facility in Highfield will include 12 residential units, therapeutic spaces, staff accommodation, outdoor play areas and a family access and youth support unit.
The project is being advanced by Women’s Aid and will enable the organisation to deliver a comprehensive range of wrap-around services and support, reports RTE.
The Dundalk refuge has been designated as a priority site under the third national strategy on domestic, sexual and gender-based violence, which seeks to double the number of refuge units and safe accommodation places nationwide.
Funding was approved by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne and Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan.
The announcement paves the way for Women’s Aid to proceed with awarding the construction contract, reports RTE.
Dr Stephanie O’Keeffe, CEO of Cuan, said that Women’s Aid had been providing vital services for vulnerable women and their children for many years and this funding allocation will make the new refuge a reality.
Mr Browne said the Government is committed to increasing refuge capacity across the country.
Mr O’Callaghan said that the refuge would provide a vital sanctuary, offering safety and care in times of great need, reports RTE.
“Today’s development and vital investment reflects our commitment at the highest level to providing safe spaces that are needed for people to rest, recover and rebuild,” he said, reports RTE.
He said: “Under the Government’s zero tolerance strategy we have committed to increasing safe accommodation in Louth, and today’s announcement again demonstrates that we are delivering on our aim to ensure that those who need a refuge space will get one. This is a collaborative effort, with my Department, the Department of Housing, the Housing Agency, AHBs and local authorities working together to ensure refuge development at scale is prioritised,” reports RTE.
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