‘We cannot send these people back to be further abused’

MEMBERS of South Dublin County Council have passed a motion calling on the Chief Executive to ensure victims of domestic violence are “explicitly recognised and appropriately prioritised in the allocation of social housing.”

Councillor Kay Keane raised this motion at this month’s Council meeting, urging SDCC to heed the housing needs of domestic violence victims who may be in danger in their own homes.

This motion came after the implementation of a new protocol allowing eligible applicants seeking safety from DSGBV to transfer waiting time accrued on a housing list in one local authority area to another when relocation is necessary.

Councillor Keane acknowledged the inclusion of this protocol but referred to the lack of “finite detail” as to “how these people will be treated” once they enter the new housing list.

“You will most likely be asked to go into emergency accommodation if you fit the criteria to be able to be on a housing list in the first place.”

She referred to recent figures pointing to “1,900 women” who have been left without housing in the last six months

“because the refuges are full.”

“Nine times out of 10 they end up going back to the abuser. Femicide is on the increase in this country, and shockingly, Women’s Aid is now reporting an increase in cases where people are presenting not only where there has been violence towards an adult in a relationship but also towards children, which is very, very concerning.”

Cllr Keane also quoted figures from Women’s Aid and an Garda Síochána, which showed that between January and April this year, “there is a ten per cent increase on 2025’s figures regarding people reporting domestic violence and sexual abuse.”

South Dublin County Council shared a response to this motion, stating that it recognises “the significant impact that domestic, sexual and gender-based violence can have on individuals and families and the need to ensure that appropriate housing supports are available to those affected.”

“Victims of domestic violence who are assessed as homeless or at risk of homelessness can access the full range of housing and homeless services available through the Council and the Dublin Region Homeless Executive.

“Housing applications are assessed having regard to the provisions of our Allocation Scheme and relevant housing legislation.”

SDCC also referenced the inter-local authority protocol for victims of domestic violence and ensured that it continues to work with the relevant authorities “to ensure that households experiencing domestic violence receive appropriate support and assistance in accessing housing services.”

Cllr Keane concluded that she is “not looking for an acknowledgement of the protocol” but clarification on how it will directly benefit a victim of domestic violence who is forced out of their home out of fear.

“I am asking for the council to ensure that people will be prioritised and it will be explicitly recognised that victims of domestic abuse should have housing priority despite there being a housing crisis.

“We cannot send these people back to be further abused and possibly murdered by their abusers,” she stated.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme