merrion street

Frances Fitzgerald TD, Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality, has today announced annual funding allocations totalling €1.712 million for organisations supporting victims of crime. 

Fifty-eight organisations will be funded in 2017, and of these, five organisations will receive funding for the first time. 

The Tánaiste stated: 

“In Budget 2017 I secured a 17% increase in funding for services to victims of crime. This is in addition to the 21% increase granted in 2016. This funding, which is administered by the Victims of Crime office in my Department, is allocated to organisations working with victims of crime.” 

These organisations provide vital and valuable information and support to victims of crime, including emotional support, court accompaniment, accompaniment to Garda interviews, accompaniment to sexual assault treatment units, counselling and referral to other services. 

The Tánaiste added: 

“I am especially mindful of the commitment and unstinting work of the staff and volunteers in these organisations and I thank them for their efforts.” 

This funding will ensure the continuity and expansion of services of organisations which provide services that give effect on the ground to the EU Victims Directive in terms of providing information, advice and support to victims. Implementation of the EU Victims Directive will further be supported by the new landmark Criminal Justice (Victims of Crime) Bill was published yesterday 29 December 2016. 

The Tánaiste concluded: 

“I am confident that 2017 will see additional support for victims through this funding. I hope that the support so provided will ease the suffering and confusion experienced by victims as a result of crimes committed against them."