Calls for new refuge unit in Kildare

Responding to Deputy Ó Cearúil, Deputy Jim O'Callaghan said that he had also visited Teach Tearmainn, which he said is “a wonderful refuge in County Kildare”

However, the Minister added, like many other refuges, Teach Termainn was “obviously under pressure” in terms of meeting the demand for its services.

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The Minister stated that while Kildare has not been identified as a priority location for new refuge construction in the current phase, Cuan is “supportive” of ensuring Kildare is on the priority list for phase 2 development.

The Minister pointed out that the number of Cuan refuges has increased by 13 to 172 refuges nationally, and said he would liaise with Cuan in respect of a refuge for Kildare.

Deputy Ó Cearúil said: “I welcome the Minister saying that Cuan is considering Kildare for phase 2 development. That is welcome news. Teach Tearmainn is in Kildare town, which is quite a considerable distance from the north of the county, from the likes of Maynooth, Leixlip, Celbridge, Kilcock and Clane, and it is technically in the Kildare South constituency.

“However, it caters for women not only across Kildare but also across the midlands. The work it does is truly outstanding.

“One thing that has arisen for Teach Tearmainn is the amount of court-based related work it has been carrying out in Naas. There is need for a refuge centre in Naas, although I should say it has safe houses there. When will phase 2 be considered so that the likes of Teach Tearmainn can plan for the future?”

The Minister replied that the priority list for phase 2 development has a timeline, “but a lot of it is about identifying a suitable location.”

He said: “I hear what the Deputy says about Naas. I am happy to engage with him on any proposals he thinks would be suitable for provision of a refuge.”