RCNI Press Release 08 February 2006

Rape Crisis Network Ireland (RCNI) today questioned the actions of Fr John Dunphy and Dr Denis O’Dwyer in being character witnesses for an unrepentant child abuser, Joseph Dempsey of Monasterevin, at his sentencing at the Central Criminal Court on the 6th of February. Further the RCNI calls upon churches and the relevant professional bodies to establish standards of behaviour in this matter.

Kate Mulkerrins, RCNI legal Coordinator said, ‘what is shocking in this particular case is that Dr Denis O’Dwyer and Fr. John Dunphy appear to have spoken up on behalf of an individual who by virtue of his ‘not guilty’ plea had not even accepted his own responsibility for the suffering caused to his young nephew whom he anally raped and sexually assaulted. The abuse was carried out over eight years from when the child was four or five.

The actions of these ‘respected pillars of the community’ speaking on behalf of ‘substantial Kildare Farmer’ Joseph Dempsey, begs the question in what circumstances should the credibility and status of these professions and vocations be used to excuse a man who has not asked for forgiveness for a crime he has denied. One can only imagine the impact such character references for the abuser has on the victim.

The RCNI feel strongly that the church and professional bodies whom these ‘pillars of our community’ belong to, should have strong opinions about this matter and established standards of conduct which would uphold the communities’ trust and respect in those offices.’

Notes:
• The RCNI is the national forum of Rape Crisis Centres, which provides a strong voice for survivors and is a catalyst for social change to end rape and all forms of sexual violence.

For more information
Cliona Saidlear 087 2196447
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