RCNI Press Release 22 April 2008

High court challenge to 2006 sexual offences act

Rape Crisis Network Ireland (RCNI) responding to the announcement of a High Court Constitutional challenge to the 2006 Sexual Offences Act said it raised many questions.

Fiona Neary, RCNI Director, said ‘this case appears to raise many questions about how the law responds to this child protection issue. This case puts the spotlight on the complexities surrounding child protection in Ireland, especially concerning teenagers as they emerge into their sexuality. It may be too early to draw any conclusions.

The aim of the particular part of the 2006 Act that is being challenged was to protect teenagers who became pregnant as a result of underage sex and therefore applies only to girls. The High Court must now decide if this is possible under the terms of the Constitutional right to non discrimination by gender.


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

For information contact:
Cliona Saidlear: 087 2196447
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