JUSTICE MINISTER SAYS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE REFUGE FOR CAVAN/MONAGHAN IS PRIORITY

Fianna Fáil TD Niamh Smyth has stated that Minister for Justice Helen McEntee has assured her that Cavan/Monaghan is a priority area for refuge accommodation for victims of domestic, sexual and gender- based violence and every effort would be made to ensure that the facility was put in place as soon as possible. Deputy Smyth told the Northern Standard that several interagency meetings had taken place since 2022 to explore how to progress the development of a refuge in the constituency.

“Some steps have been taken through engagement with Monaghan and Cavan Co Councils to identify a suitable site. I believe a site at Cootehill, in the ownership of Cavan Co Council, has initially been proposed for consideration. “I appreciate there are some services in the constituency, but these are already stretched. We urgently require a 24-hour refuge in the Cavan/Monaghan area that offers safe and secure accommodation and support. “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…