Laois Domestic Abuse Service has been approved for €42,500 in government funding.
This funding will assist Laois Domestic Abuse Service to increase their ability to provide supports and services.
This includes providing information and advice on the rights of victims, as well as counselling services, court accompaniment and other accompaniment.
Training and awareness raising of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence is also funded.
Laois TD Sean Fleming and Green Party Minister Pippa Hackett welcomed the news.
Deputy Fleming said: “Last month the Government confirmed the provision of a new 8 unit refuge for victims of domestic violence in Portlaoise.
“So I am pleased to see additional support and funding being made available to this organisation.
“I will continue to work closely with Laois Domestic Abuse Service in their project to establish a new Domestic Abuse Refuge Accommodation in Portlaoise.”
Minister Hackett said: “This is tangible evidence of the commitment of this government to support victims in their engagement with the justice system.
“Laois Domestic Abuse Service is to receive €42,500, Offaly Domestic Violence Support Service €47,000 and Westmeath Support Service against Domestic Abuse €40,000 towards supporting victims of crime.
“These services, all operating in the area of domestic, sexual and gender based violence, are already doing invaluable work.
“I can appreciate how important it is for a person to have someone with experience accompany them to court to help manage their fear of the system and the unknown.
“My colleague Minister McEntee is working to implement a victim centred criminal justice system where victims know that they will be treated with respect and dignity when they come forward to report what has happened to them.
“This is hugely important as we strive towards zero tolerance of domestic, sexual and gender based violence. All who experience crime should feel supported to stand up and receive justice.”
Details on the supports and services offered by Laois Domestic Abuse Service is available on their website: https://www.laoisdomesticabuseservice.ie/
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