The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC) has welcomed the publication of a new bill on sexual offences and human trafficking.

Its outgoing chief executive Noeline Blackwell (pictured) has, however, expressed disappointment that there is no provision to ensure that victims have access to legal advice from the outset, and as they need it during the investigation and trial process.

“This was recognised as a necessary part of supporting victims in their journey through the justice system, and its absence denies victims the right to be fully informed and equipped to deal with the system, where they play such a crucial part in their own cases, and on behalf of all society,” she stated.

The Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Human Trafficking) Bill 2023 was published earlier this week.

Anomalies

Among its main provisions is a change in the law on consent in rape cases.

The DRCC said that the proposed legislation addressed some long-standing issues affecting victims and survivors of sexual violence, and called for it to be progressed “with all due haste”.

It welcomed the removal of some anomalies about the meaning of consent, the strengthening of the capacity to identify victims of human trafficking, and the provision of anonymity and “some limited extension of legal aid” to victims of sexual offences in court.

“These changes should make it somewhat easier for victims of sexual crime to come forward and be supported in accessing justice,” said Shirley Scott (DRCC policy manager).