As the Taoiseach is aware, the number of people who contacted the domestic violence support service, Women’s Aid, increased by more than 40% last year. A similar concerning pattern is reflected in local services such as in west Cork where the West Cork Women Against Violence Project has seen an increase of more than 40% in calls and reports.

The Istanbul Convention specifies that there is one refuge space per 10,000 people. However, in Ireland we provide one refuge space per 10,000 women, leaving us with 50% less than the recommended number of refuge spaces. Given all of the very obvious reasons and the new worrying rise in reports of domestic violence, will the Taoiseach commit to fully complying with the Istanbul Convention?

That report is deeply concerning in terms of the broader issue of domestic violence. The Department of Justice leads national policy and co-ordination of actions. Additional resources have been provided. We are fully committed to implementing the Istanbul Convention but also to providing additional resources to support the agencies and non-governmental organisations involved, and the creation of more refuge facilities. The number of people who have contacted-----

What about compliance with the Istanbul Convention?

-----domestic violence support services increased by more than 40% last year compared to 2019. That is deeply worrying. We are very conscious of the impact of Covid on this issue, and in particular the restrictions. During that period Tusla prioritised the delivery of front-line domestic, sexual and gender-based violence, DSGBV, services. Funding has been increased-----

The question was about the number of refuge spaces we provide.

I know the question. I am sorry, the time is up.

I know. We need to do more. We have increased funding.

The time is up. The Deputies must excuse me.