Rape Crisis Network Ireland has welcomed the announcement that €2.5 million will be provided for two new sexual assault treatment units in the west and midlands.
The funding will also be used to support the introduction of forensic nurse training to allow nurses to carry out forensic clinical examinations.
Minister for Health Mary Harney also announced an additional €4.5 million for rape crisis centres and domestic violence refuges in the State.
The announcement comes a year after the completion of a report on services for victims of sexual assault. It recommended the development of the two new centres and the standardisation of the four existing units in Letterkenny, Cork, Waterford and Dublin. It also recommended the establishment of a forensic nursing pilot programme.
Rape Crisis Network Ireland (RCNI) said it was delighted the long, hard lobbying had paid off. Fiona Neary, RCNI executive, said the funding meant vital services provided by rape crisis centres could be on a more secure footing.
"Some services will be in a better situation to address current waiting lists," she said. "Major inadequacies in pay and employment conditions can now be addressed to secure expertise and continuation of services under threat." She said the organisation had sought €7 million and would keep the pressure on to secure the remainder of the money.
Ellen O'Malley-Dunlop, chief executive of the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre, commended the Minister for "recognising that prioritising and focusing funding in the area of sexual assault treatment services can bring about real change".
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