MINISTER for Education and Kerry TD Norma Foley has announced a new multi-million-euro women’s refuge for Kerry.

The ADAPT Kerry service in Tralee will be expanded into a larger women’s refuge with 13 family residential units, kitchen facilities, living spaces and a playroom.

Other facilities will include a reception, laundry room, meeting rooms, therapeutic spaces for children, teenagers and adults, study areas and a first aid and treatment area. There will also be an outdoor play area featuring a playground, a sensory space, and a picnic and seating area.

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Minister Foley thanked Darragh O’Brien, the Minister for Housing, for approving the multi-million-euro budget for the project.

“I welcome the fact that we will now have an enhanced women’s refuge in Tralee to help victims of domestic violence. Domestic violence profoundly affects the physical, emotional, social and financial wellbeing of individuals and families. This facility will be a vital support for women who have to leave their home immediately for their own safety.”

Minister Foley paid tribute to the work of ADAPT Kerry: “I especially want to acknowledge the outstanding work of the management, staff and board of ADAPT Kerry. We are fortunate to have such dedicated and expert personnel providing this enormously important service for the benefit of those who need it.”

Minister Foley also thanked Kerry County Council for their support and input.

Minister Foley encouraged any person who is being affected by domestic violence to seek support and to contact the Gardaí.

“Domestic violence is one of the greatest ills that can affect any individual, harming their sense of safety and self within their home. For survivors of domestic violence, it can feel as if there is no escape. But there are supports out there and I encourage anyone who is being affected to avail of them.”