Kilkenny TD welcomes significant funding for domestic and sexual violence services

Leas Ceann Comhairle and Fianna Fáil TD for Carlow–Kilkenny, John McGuinness, has welcomed the announcement of significant new funding for domestic, sexual and gender-based violence services, including almost €212,000 for organisations supporting victims in Kilkenny and Carlow.

The funding forms part of a €3.2 million national allocation announced by the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Jim O’Callaghan TD, following a targeted funding call by Cuan, the national agency for domestic, sexual and gender-based violence.

Under this allocation, the following organisations in Kilkenny and Carlow will receive funding:

• €35,000 for AMBER Refuge, Kilkenny and Carlow
• €7,300 for the Kilkenny Rape Crisis Centre (KASA)
• €97,547.55 for the Carlow & South Leinster Rape Crisis Centre
• €71,625.66 for Carlow Women’s Aid

Welcoming the announcement, Deputy McGuinness said:

“This funding, totalling almost €212,000 for Kilkenny and Carlow, is a very welcome and necessary investment in services that provide vital refuge, counselling and support to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.

"I recently visited Amber Refuge, where I had the opportunity to see first-hand the extraordinary work being carried out by staff and volunteers in supporting victims of domestic abuse and violence. Their dedication, professionalism and compassion make a real difference to people at the most difficult moments of their lives.”

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Deputy McGuinness paid tribute to all frontline staff and volunteers across the funded organisations:

“I want to acknowledge the unwavering commitment of the staff in AMBER Refuge, Carlow Women’s Aid, KASA, and the Carlow & South Leinster Rape Crisis Centre. Every day, they strive to restore dignity, provide safety, and offer counselling and practical assistance to victims of rape, domestic abuse and domestic violence. Their work is nothing short of life-changing.”

The national funding allocation of €3.2 million will support 67 services across the State and focuses on expanding counselling for adolescent victims, improving access for marginalised groups, increasing capacity across national helplines, enhancing training and governance, and expanding perpetrator programmes.

Deputy McGuinness concluded:

“As we work towards a zero-tolerance society for domestic and sexual violence, it is essential that services on the ground are properly resourced to meet growing demand. This funding will strengthen service delivery locally and nationally, and I commend Minister O’Callaghan, Cuan, and all service providers for their continued focus on protecting and supporting victims.”