Tullamore domestic violence refuge project takes step forward
The Government announced today (Friday) that a funding application for the development of a domestic violence refuge in Tullamore has successfully passed the first stage.
The application for budget approval by Oaklee Housing Association was described as "a milestone in the development and delivery" of a refuge in Offaly's county town.
A statement on behalf of Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan and Housing Minister James Browne said Tullamore was identified as a priority location for a refuge under the third National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence.
The local project is being led by Oaklee Housing Association in partnership with Offaly County Council and Offaly Domestic Violence Support Service.
It's due to consist of ten self-contained family units with 24/7 crisis response, therapeutic supports and pathways to recovery.
The plans include ancillary services as well as communal spaces for residents and facilities such as outdoor play space and children’s sensory room.
Following on from stage one application approval, stage two will include further detail and costings on the full extent of the works.
It is hoped that construction will be completed on the refuge by late 2028.
The Government said the new facility "will ensure women and children in immediate danger do not need to leave their county to find safety, allowing them to remain close to schools, communities and local supports".
Justice Minster Jim O'Callaghan said: "Increasing refuge capacity and safe accommodation in Offaly has been a key focus of the Government’s Zero Tolerance strategy.
"This facility is another important step in our aim of ensuring that everyone who needs a refuge space will get one."
Dr Stephanie O'Keeffe, CEO of Cuan, said: "I’d like to recognise the dedication of Offaly Domestic Violence Support Service organisation and Oaklee Housing.
"Their work, and the wider collaborative efforts of the Department of Housing, the Housing Agency and Offaly County Council, have been essential to this project. It is through this collaboration and dedication that we can make these vital supports for people in Offaly a reality."
Sharon Cosgrove, CEO of Oaklee, commented: "Oaklee welcomes the CAS stage one approval as an important milestone in delivering a refuge in Offaly for people affected by domestic violence.
"This progress builds on our partnership with Offaly Domestic Violence Support Services and reflects our ongoing commitment to creating safe, supportive spaces where people can rebuild their lives with dignity and security."
Offaly Domestic Violence Support Service has been supporting victims and survivors of domestic violence since 1997. Its service manager, Anne Clarke, said said the development of a new refuge in Tullamore "will be a vital step in ensuring that those experiencing domestic violence have access to immediate safety, stability, and specialist support.
"This refuge will significantly strengthen our ability to respond to need across County Offaly, offering protection and a pathway to recovery for victims and their children at a critical time."
Today's news was also welcomed by local Fine Gael TD John Clendennen who described it as "a very important step forward" for Offaly.
"For too long, women and children experiencing domestic violence have had to leave the county to access refuge accommodation. Today’s announcement brings us closer to ensuring that safety, support and protection can be accessed locally, when it is needed most," said the TD.
"Following this stage one approval, it is vital that momentum is maintained. I will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to ensure this project progresses through stage two, and on to construction, so that families in Offaly can access the protection and support they deserve."