Ruth Coppinger (Dublin West, Anti-Austerity Alliance) | Oireachtas source

I would like to have further information, although we have limited time to discuss this. When somebody who has potentially been, or who claims they have been, the victim of rape or a sexual assault goes to see a therapist or a counsellor, I would have thought that was a completely private discussion where somebody gives their most personal thoughts and feelings. Yet, it is proposed that the prosecution could potentially use what is said to a therapist or a counsellor against that person. I can foresee many situations where that might happen. If the victim knew the person they were accusing of rape or sexual assault, and said things about that person, I could foresee many things that might then be used against the victim. I am surprised this is being proposed and agreed by different organisations, which is why I asked for a review. The Minister said there is some technicality with the amendment but perhaps it is one she could just agree to.

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