Building Laois domestic abuse shelter a 'priority' - sexual violence agency CUAN

Finding a new housing body to develop a domestic abuse shelter in Laois is "a priority" according to the national agency that is tasked with overseeing construction.

This week the Leinster Express / Laois Live revealed that the Department of Housing has turned down a funding application for the shelter, made by the Sophia Approved Housing Body (AHB).

The project to build a secure eight unit family shelter in Portlaoise is being led by Laois Domestic Abuse Service, a partnered housing body, and Cuan, a statutory agency under the remit of the Department of Justice, dedicated to tackling and reducing domestic, sexual and gender-based violence (DSGBV). 

Cuan has given a statement to the Leinster Express / Laois Live.

“Cuan is working in partnership with local frontline service providers, local authorities, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and the Housing Agency, in order to accelerate the delivery of domestic violence safe accommodation. The development of emergency domestic violence refuge accommodation in County Laois is a priority for Cuan.

“Cuan is continuing to work with Laois Domestic Abuse Service, Laois County Council and other key stakeholders to address any concerns and we will continue to support this important development. Cuan is working with all stakeholders to identify an Approved Housing Body to support this development and resubmit the CAS Stage 1 application as a matter of priority.”

Sophia Housing which recently delivered the landmark Portlaoise Convent social housing project, was described by the Minister for Housing James Browne as not to be "unable to meet essential funding criteria". A new AHB partner is now being sought.

The decision was met with shock and disappointment in Laois, as the county urgently needs a shelter for families living in dangerous abusive homes.

A site which includes a listed building was bought by Laois County Council two years ago for €1.75m, but has sat idle since as the project failed to progress.

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Laois Domestic Abuse Service has a Portlaoise office and a secure website, where staff support hundreds of Laois women and children who suffer domestic abuse, including providing court advocacy, legal advice and counselling.

Domestic abuse happens when the abuser controls and asserts power over their partner in an intimate relationship. It includes physical abuse, emotional abuse, financial abuse and sexual abuse.