I want to raise the provision of a domestic violence refuge in Sligo-Leitrim. I accept that, happily, nine new refuges are being developed and nine others redeveloped. One of those new refuges is planned for Sligo. Currently, there is no domestic violence refuge in Sligo, Leitrim or Roscommon. The nearest refuges are in Letterkenny, Castlebar, Athlone or Enniskillen. We are at the starting blocks and we are looking for a site. I ask that every effort will be made to progress the refuge in Sligo. There can be no delays and funding must be in place. There is also an urgent need for a refuge in Leitrim. I ask that it would be put on the agenda. While a refuge is crucial, it is only a small part of the solution.

I thank the Deputy.

We must ensure that children and families experiencing domestic violence can access comprehensive domestic violence services.

I thank Deputy Harkin for raising this issue. She will be aware that we have established a new agency, Cuan, which will work with all stakeholders to put the structures and supports in place to accelerate the delivery of additional refuge accommodation year on year. She will also be aware that active planning and engagement is under way for the delivery of 150 additional family refuge units. We will deliver eight new family refuge units, 25 additional family refuge units are under construction, and we will increase the number of safe homes by a further 35%. The following 12 locations have been identified for the prioritisation of delivery of 98 family refuge spaces. Sligo is at the top of the list for eight family places. The other locations are Cavan-Monaghan, Cork city, north Cork, west Cork, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown, Westmeath, Portlaoise, Balbriggan, Longford, Carlow and Offaly. That work is under way and every effort will be made to accelerate it.