Safe Fund must be delivered in Budget 2027 – Bacik
Safe Fund must be delivered in Budget 2027 – Bacik - The Labour Party
Labour Leader Ivana Bacik TD has called on Government to include Labour’s proposed Safe Fund in Budget 2027, saying women and children experiencing domestic abuse cannot afford further delays. Speaking during Leaders’ Questions in the Dáil today, Deputy Bacik raised the alarming increase in the number of women killed violently this year and urged the Government to move beyond expressions of sympathy by delivering practical support that help survivors leave abusive situations.
Deputy Bacik said:
“Families are grieving and too many women and children are living every day in fear of domestic violence. We know that financial insecurity and the housing crisis are trapping many victims in abusive homes because they simply cannot afford to leave. Frontline organisations such as Women’s Aid have repeatedly warned that a lack of immediate financial support is preventing women from escaping dangerous situations.
“Today, the Taoiseach reiterated his commitment to engage with Labour on our proposal for a €3 million Safe Fund, administered by Women’s Aid and available without means testing. I welcome that commitment in principle, but follow-through will be crucial. Survivors cannot wait indefinitely while discussions continue behind closed doors.
“Labour’s proposal is practical and affordable. It would provide immediate financial assistance to women and children seeking to leave violent homes, addressing one of the greatest barriers identified by frontline services. Government now has the opportunity to deliver this measure through Budget 2027.
“Labour is calling on the Government to commit to establishing the Safe Fund in Budget 2027 and to work with Women’s Aid to ensure it is operational without delay. If even one woman or child is protected from violence because they finally have the means to leave, it will have been worth it. Women and children deserve safety, security and the opportunity to rebuild their lives. Government must turn its commitment into action.”