Funding announced for services tackling domestic abuse in Westmeath

Government funding was announced today for services supporting victims of domestic abuse in Westmeath and other areas of the Midlands.

The funding announcement by Justice Minister Helen McEntee includes €42,786 for Athlone's Esker House Women's Refuge, and €42,500 for the Westmeath Support Service against Domestic Abuse.

In neighbouring Offaly, €47,000 is being given to the Offaly Domestic Violence Support Service and €20,000 is being granted to Accessible Counselling Tullamore.

The funding for the Midlands was welcomed by Offaly's Green Party Minister of State, Pippa Hackett.

"These services, all operating in the area of domestic, sexual and gender based violence, are already doing invaluable work," she said, adding that the funding was "tangible evidence of the commitment of this government to support victims" in their engagement with the justice system.

"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," she said.

Minister McEntee today announced funding totalling €4.6m for more than 60 organisations to support victims of crime in various parts of the country.