Funding approved for new domestic violence refuge in Dundalk

Funding approval for the construction of a new domestic violence refuge in Dundalk was announced today by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, and Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Jim O’Callaghan TD

The €6.5 million project is being brought forward by Women’s Aid Dundalk, and the approval announced today will allow them to proceed to formally award the construction contract to the successful contractor, with works commencing onsite shortly after.   
 
The refuge, to be located in Highfield, has been identified as a priority location under the Third National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Strategy – which aims to double the number of refuge units and safe accommodation across the country.

Once operational the refuge will offer 12 residential units, therapeutic spaces, a family access unit, a youth and child support unit, overnight accommodation for staff, as well as outdoor play spaces and resident open space area – which will allow Women’s Aid Dundalk to provide a suite of wraparound services such as counselling and support.  

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Welcoming news of the funding, Dr Stephanie O’Keeffe, CEO of Cuan, the national Domestic, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Agency, said: “Women’s Aid Dundalk has been providing vital services for vulnerable women and their children for many years now.

"This funding allocation will help make the new domestic violence refuge in Dundalk a reality, with Women’s Aid Dundalk leading on this ambitious and important project. This is a positive development not only for County Louth, but for the ambitions of the overall Zero Tolerance Strategy.”

Announcing the funding, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne said: “I am happy to be in a position to approve this essential funding for Louth. This Government is committed to increasing refuge capacity across the country and to make sure that we support all those who are impacted by domestic violence.

"Today’s announcement of a modern refuge facility in Dundalk reflects this commitment in County Louth and will provide much needed support within the local community and for survivors. 

“Domestic violence and coercive control cannot be tolerated. It may often be hidden, but every single one of us who are in a position to can be part of what is a necessary cultural shift. We should all be actively involved in calling out gender based violence in all the ways it presents itself. 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.”

Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Jim O’Callaghan, said: “A facility like this can be life changing for those who avail of it, and the funding approved today moves us a step closer to making this refuge a reality. The refuge will provide a vital sanctuary for vulnerable women and children, offering safety and care in times of great need.  

“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.”