Minister Jim O’Callaghan officially opened a new domestic violence refuge in Dublin 4, designed to provide safe accommodation for women and children experiencing domestic violence. The nine-unit facility, funded and supported operationally by Cuan, the national Domestic, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Agency, can accommodate approximately 36 families per year, or up to 62 people at a time. The refuge includes a children’s playground, communal garden, meeting rooms, and a communal area to foster a supportive environment for families in crisis.
The refuge will be operated by the Sonas Domestic Violence Charity, which also carried out the refurbishment. A dedicated staff team of 14, including support workers for adults and children, night-support workers, a service manager, and a team leader, will provide on-site assistance. Minister O’Callaghan emphasized that the refuge offers more than shelter; it delivers vital support services to help families recover and rebuild their lives, reflecting the government’s broader commitment to expanding safe accommodation under the Third National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence.
Siobhán Ferguson, interim CEO of Sonas, highlighted the refuge as a source of safety, stability, and hope, particularly during a period of unprecedented demand. The new facility will complement Sonas’ existing services, which include outreach, safety planning, court accompaniment, counselling, information and advice, advocacy, and referral support, providing holistic assistance to survivors of domestic violence.
Dr Stephanie O’Keeffe, CEO of Cuan, praised the milestone as a significant step in expanding domestic violence refuge capacity in Ireland. She noted that the built-for-purpose design, including communal spaces and a children’s playground, ensures that families experience both safety and a sense of community while accessing critical support services.
