RCNI Press Release - 3 November 2010
Rape Crisis Network Ireland (RCNI) welcomes that Aer Lingus is compiling a complaint and has referred the matter or Neil Prendeville’s alleged criminal behaviour to the Gardaí. Indecent exposure is rightly recognised as sexually harmful behaviour and as a crime.
Fiona Neary, RCNI Director said, ‘Indecent sexual behaviour, imposed on bystanders can be both humiliating and intimidating. It is important that the harmful effects are fully recognised and appreciated. Describing such behaviours as an ‘embarrassing incident’ serves to minimise the harm inflicted and give a green-light to those with sexually harmful behaviours. Every woman has the right to go about her work environment and her daily life without having unwanted sexual behaviour put upon her.
‘If media coverage is accurate, the type of behaviour of Mr Prendeville engaged in, is regarded as serious enough to constitute a crime under both our own law and the law of England & Wales. We would very much welcome further information from Aer Lingus as to its policy on how they address such situations in the interest of employee and passenger safety and upholding the law.’
For further information
Ends
Rape Crisis Network Ireland, The Halls, Quay Street, Galway, Ireland
Registered in Dublin, Ireland Company Reg.: 363350 Charity No.: 13236
091 563676
091 563677
Registered in Dublin, Ireland Company Reg.: 363350 Charity No.: 13236
