Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan-Monaghan & North Meath, Niamh Smyth, organised and moderated a meeting this week to facilitate a discussion on advancing the delivery of a domestic violence refuge in Cavan-Monaghan with the various stakeholders.
Deputy Smyth said, "It was unacceptable that there is no domestic violence refuge in Cavan-Monaghan. I was delighted to host a productive roundtable discussion with all the stakeholders where we outlined the key steps that must be taken before progress can be made on delivering this facility on the ground.
“The scourge of domestic, sexual and gender based violence, and its trail of destruction must be tackled immediately with victims protected and supported. We must deliver a safe haven that will allow the women presenting at the refuge the time and space to recover and plan their future. The provision of necessary wrap-around services especially for children are also essential in rebuilding their esteem and confidence from the trauma.
"I appreciate there are some services in the constituency, but these services are already stretched. We urgently require a 24hr refuge that offers safe and secure accommodation and support as evidenced in the Tusla accommodation review.
"I will continue to work with all the stakeholders to ensure this key project is delivered without delay as this has been a key priority of mine since elected to Dáil Eireann.''
-ENDS-
