New Wexford Women’s Refuge facility opens

By Dan Walsh

Minister for Justice Helen McEntee TD was in Wexford town today where she officially cut the ribbon and opened the new €6.5 million state-of-the art domestic violence facility for Wexford’s Women’s Refuge consisting of 12 family units for those experiencing domestic, sexual and gender-based violence.

Each unit in the new facility contains a bedroom, kitchen/living area, and bathroom, and can accommodate a family of one mother and her children. It replaces the existing four-unit facility in the town, which is no longer fit for purpose.

There is also space for children to play and teens will have designated areas to relax and continue with their school studies.

Minister McEntee said, “Today is an important day for Wexford and I am very grateful to all involved, especially Women’s Wexford Refuge, for their hard work in designing and planning this facility. The facility will also serve as a hub to facilitate community and outreach initiatives to support vulnerable families in the community.

Minister of State at the Department of Justice, James Browne TD, said; “Wexford Women’s Refuge have been at the frontline of supporting women and their children who have been subjected to domestic violence for nearly 25 years.

“This new building represents so much more than just a safe place for vulnerable victims – a full suite of support services is also being provided, including counselling, therapeutic services, and court liaison, to help support these families at perhaps the most difficult time in their lives.

“I want to thank refuge chair Vicky Barron and the Board of Directors, the staff and volunteers at the refuge for their tireless work to change the lives of women and children across county Wexford,” concluded Minister Browne.

The new facility constructed by local company, Mythens on a site provided by Wexford County Council beside St Marys GAA Club in Maudlintown and covers the whole of County Wexford and an Outreach Service that endeavours to reach out to women who are unable to come into the Refuge for whatever reason.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence and in need of support, you can reach out to Wexford Women’s refuge by phoning 053 9121876 or 1800 220 444.