Social Policy Ardee 1 July 2026

New Housing Protocol Offers Safety and Security for Domestic Abuse Survivors

Senator Alison Comyn has backed significant new government measures intended to remove major hurdles for survivors of domestic, sexual, and gender-based abuse as they work to rebuild their lives.

The new rules, introduced by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, provide a lifeline for individuals who must relocate to a different local authority area for their own safety. Previously, such a move could force an applicant to restart the social housing waiting list process. Under the new protocol, survivors can now retain the time they have already accrued.

“For many women and children fleeing domestic abuse, safe and secure housing is not simply a roof over their heads. It is a vital part of rebuilding their lives and recovering from trauma,” said Senator Comyn. She emphasized that no survivor should be forced to choose between their safety and the opportunity to secure long-term accommodation.

Protocol Details

The new protocol, which has taken effect immediately, includes several key provisions for those meeting social housing eligibility criteria:

📋 Key Measures

Waiting List Continuity: Applicants can transfer their original qualification date when applying to a new local authority.
Flexibility: Local authorities are now empowered to waive local connection requirements where it is deemed appropriate for the survivor’s safety.
Coordinated Strategy: The measure was developed in consultation with local authorities and Cuan, the State agency dedicated to addressing domestic, sexual, and gender-based violence.

This initiative is a core component of the Government’s *Delivering Homes, Building Communities 2025-2030* strategy. Senator Comyn praised the reform as a “compassionate and practical” step forward, noting her commitment to monitoring how these supports are implemented consistently across all local authority areas, including in communities like **Ardee** and across Louth.

“Providing survivors with the security and stability of long-term housing is a crucial part of helping them rebuild their lives with dignity, safety and hope,” Senator Comyn added, affirming her continued focus on exploring all available options for move-on accommodation for survivors.

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