Local refuge for victims of domestic violence "a priority" vow Cuan

Victims have waited "too long" for centre, says Deputy Smith

Cuan has committed to developing a refuge centre to accommodate victims of domestic abuse in the Cavan Monaghan area.

The CEO of Cuan, the Domestic Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Agency, Dr Stephanie O'Keeffe, in response to a parliamentary question from Deputy Brendan Smith, said the Cavan/Monaghan region has been “identified as a priority area for refuge development”.

Dr O'Keeffe said Cuan has a dedicated team that has been engaging with the local service provider in the Cavan/Monaghan area and that provider will work with Safe Ireland, “who will now lead out on the development of refuge accommodation in the Cavan/Monaghan area”.

“Cuan is engaging with Safe Ireland in this regard and will provide the supports to progress this development in 2024,” she stated. “Cuan has also been engaging both Cavan and Monaghan County Councils to discuss potential refuge development. Cuan is working to progress refuge development in this area as a priority in 2024.”

Much needed

Deputy Smith said: “I’m pleased to receive confirmation from Cuan that progress is being made on the development of a refuge centre for those suffering domestic, sexual and gender-based violence for the Cavan/Monaghan region and that it will be prioritised this year.

“This facility is much-needed for the Cavan/Monaghan area. At present there is no dedicated centre for victims of domestic abuse in either county. They have been waiting too long for this centre.”