Funding approved for development of 'life-changing' domestic violence refuge in Offaly

A funding application for the development of a domestic violence refuge in Offaly has successfully passed the first stage.

The announcement was made by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, and Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Jim O’Callaghan TD on Friday, December 19. 

The project has successfully passed the Capital Assistance Scheme Stage 1 application by Oaklee Housing Association, marking a major step forward in delivering essential support services for the county.

The facility, which will be located in Tullamore, is part of the National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based Violence, which aims to increase the availability of safe accommodation across the country.

Once operational the refuge will transform provision in the county, offering ten self-contained family units with 24/7 crisis response, therapeutic supports and pathways to recovery.

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It will also 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. 

Plans include all ancillary services as well as communal spaces for residents and vital facilities including an outdoor play space and children’s sensory room. It is expected construction will be completed on this development in Q4, 2028.

Speaking on the approval, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne said: "I am delighted to announce my department has approved the CAS Stage 1 capital funding proposal for Oaklee Housing Association in collaboration with Offaly County Council to develop a ten unit domestic abuse refuge facility in Offaly."

The Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Jim O’Callaghan stated: "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."

Fine Gael TD for Offaly, Deputy John Clendennen, has warmly welcomed the announcement expressing that it is hugely significant for victims and survivors of domestic violence across the county.

"This is 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."

He continued: "Today’s announcement brings us closer to ensuring that safety, support and protection can be accessed locally, when it is needed most."

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Deputy Clendennen added that the trauma-informed design of the facility, including therapeutic spaces, communal areas and child-focused supports, will be transformative for families in crisis.

"This refuge will be life-changing for those who need it. It will allow women and children to remain close to their schools, families and communities while accessing specialist supports in a safe and secure environment."

Tony McCormack, Fianna Fail Offaly TD, said the project will play a vital role in ensuring that women and children experiencing domestic abuse do not have to leave Offaly to find safety.

“Today’s approval represents an important milestone for our community. Many families in crisis are forced to travel outside the county at a time when they are at their most vulnerable. This refuge will allow people to stay close to their schools, support networks and local services while receiving the protection and care they need."

He also stated: "Domestic violence cannot be tolerated and we all have a role in supporting survivors and creating a culture where abuse is no longer ignored or accepted and this project brings us closer to that goal."

Both Offaly TD's concluded by acknowledging the hard work of Oaklee Housing Association, Offaly County Council, Cuan, the Department of Housing and the Department of Justice in moving the project forward.

They also reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the project with both confirming they would work closely with all stakeholders to ensure the project progresses through stage 2 and on to construction providing families in Offaly the protection and support they deserve.