RCNI Press Release 26 April 2006
Vetting for sex offenders is an essential service - not an optional extra
Rape Crisis Network Ireland (RCNI) today, in light of the revelation that convicted rapist Francis Condra worked with vulnerable adults, demanded that Minister for Justice, Michael McDowell prioritise and adequately resource the prevention and protection measures outlined in a number of reports and strategies he has had at his disposal for the past number of years.
Fiona Neary, RCNI Executive Director stated, ‘it is unacceptable that Garda vetting has been given such a low priority by this government. Sexual violence, its prevention and the protection of the community must to be taken seriously. This demands that government pays attention to the reports and strategies being developed and adequately resources the recommendations.
In a climate where we are learning more and more about sexual violence and opening avenues for prevention, this government repeatedly neglects to resource and enact the necessary and identified steps. Not only has the phased implementation of the 2004 strategy on vetting been slow to date, it seems to be going backwards. Only this January we learnt that the Gardai were discontinuing vetting those from the UK seeking employment in Ireland with children and vulnerable adults. We welcome McDowell’s commitment last month to the 2004 strategy but ask that he take every action to make up for lost time.
Equally the recommendations of the Sexual Violence and Abuse in Ireland Report (SAVI) have been to hand since 2002, we are still waiting for action. The RCNI’s Agenda for Justice was published in late 2005 and again outlines a number of recommended reforms on how the State responses to sexual violence, which demand prompt action.’
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.
• Agenda for Justice is available at www.rcni.ie/public.htm
• The Sexual Violence and Abuse in Ireland Report (SAVI), Hannah McGee et al is available online at www.drcc.ie/about/publications.htm
For information contact:
Cliona Saidlear 087 2196447
……………..End…………………