Dublin South West Sinn Féin TD, Seán Crowe, has described the news that Cuan Álainn in Tallaght will be re-opened as fantastic. The reopening comes following an agreement between Respond!, the Dublin Regional Homeless Executive, and South Dublin County Council.

Cuan Álainn was originally a refuge for women and children fleeing domestic violence and it will now be re-opened as secure accommodation for women and children who are homeless.

Deputy Crowe said:

“This shelter provided a safe haven for 71 women and 86 children since it opened its doors in 2012. The centre which was built and operated by the Respond! Housing Association had to close in December 2015 due to funding difficulties.

“I strongly criticised the inaction of the Fine Gael and Labour Government which refused to provide this vital refuge with a sustainable source of funding and raised the issue in the Dáil on numerous occasions.

“I warmly welcome the agreement that has now been reached between Respond!, the Dublin Regional Homeless Executive, and South Dublin County Council, which will see Cuan Álainn re-opened to welcome women and children who are homeless and in need of support in order to move back into housing with the necessary supports.

“I am informed that Respond! are currently recruiting support staff for Cuan Álainn and aim to fill the units as quickly as possible.

“I am sure that Cuan Álainn’s 10 specially designed units and their fully qualified and qualified staff will ensure that this centre can again be a sanctuary and a place of refuge for children and their mothers in Dublin South West.”

ENDS