Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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69. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if she will provide an update on the social protection supports currently being considered to improve the overall departmental response to domestic abuse situations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49597/22]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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My Officials worked closely with Officials in the Department of Children, Equality and Youth on the development of the Domestic Violence Leave Report. I welcome the report’s key recommendation that a form of domestic violence leave be introduced.

Once the Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Bill is enacted, those who are suffering or at risk of domestic violence will be entitled to five days of paid leave per year. It is recommended that the payment should be made by the employer, on a similar basis to force majeureleave which will protect the incomes of those using the leave. This will ensure that Domestic Violence leave is available at short notice and without an excessive administrative burden on the person.

In addition, the Government will put in place support for employers to help them develop domestic violence workplace policies and to support employees experiencing domestic violence.

A protocol between my Department and Tusla is already in place to assist victims of domestic violence. Under this protocol, a victim of domestic violence can apply for Rent Supplement on referral by Tusla or by Tusla-funded service providers. Rent Supplement will be provided for an initial three months and will not require a means test.

I trust this clarifies matters for the Deputy.