Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

In my first Leaders' Questions as party leader, I read out some of the shocking statistics from the 2015 Women's Aid report. The latest version of that report records that there were 19,385 disclosures of domestic abuse against women and children, including 607 cases of sexual abuse. According to Garda statistics last year, 2,947 sexual offences were committed in Ireland, of which 655 were cases of rape. Sadly, there are probably many more victims behind these numbers who did not come forward. Sadly, again, very few rape trials end in conviction. The National Women's Council of Ireland has called for reform of data collection in relation to sexual assault, in particular rape. It has asked for a number of State agencies, including An Garda Síochána, the Courts Service, Tusla and others, to work together to ensure the best possible data are available to policymakers. Current gaps in the data are preventing the bringing to justice of perpetrators. The recent HIQA report on the failings of Tusla in the handling of sexual offence allegations is yet another example of that.

Last weekend, it was my honour to present at the Labour Youth conference the annual Jim Kemmy "Thirst for Justice" award to the Rape Crisis Network Ireland.

The Rape Crisis Network plays a vital role in working with survivors of rape and, in particular, co-ordinating and supporting local rape crisis centres. However, as the Taoiseach will be aware, funding for the network has been cut and the organisation is struggling to continue with its vital work. Curiously, its funding has been placed under Tusla even though adult victims of rape and sexual abuse are outside the legal remit of Tusla. The network is unlikely to receive the priority it deserves in that context.

The new #MeToo movement is spreading around the world as people recognise the victims of sexual assault and rape and encourage them to come forward. As part of the #MeToo phenomenon, a great many women across the world, and men too, have shown tremendous courage by sharing publicly their experiences. This is helping to break down some of the barriers to victims receiving justice.

It is urgent for us to ensure the State is providing sufficient funding to these vital services to support victims of sexual violence and rape and ensure there is a safe space to enable victims to come forward. Will funding be fully restored to the Rape Crisis Network? Does the Taoiseach consider Tusla to be the appropriate funding body for this network? Does he agree that a more appropriate State agency or Department of State should be found?

See this speech in context