James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I echo the Minister, Deputy Harris, in thanking the House for the opportunity to discuss this very important topic. It is, of course, very difficult and sobering to read statistics that show that this level of sexual assault and violence has taken place in our society.

I pay tribute to all the survivors of sexual violence and those who are represented in this study for their strength, resilience and bravery.

When studying their responses and this excellent piece of work, it is important to recognise that we have seen a new willingness at a societal level to recognise sexual violence for what it is. Importantly, alongside this, we have seen a willingness for people to speak out about their experiences, and crucially, for people to listen. As a society we are more prepared to acknowledge what constitutes different forms of sexual violence and to talk about our experiences. We are better able to recognise this unacceptable behaviour for what it is. That is progress.

It is appropriate and helpful to consider the results of this survey through the lens of the work we are doing across the whole of Government. We are working to encourage more victims to come forward to seek supports. We are improving the system so that victims are confident in reporting these heinous crimes.

This unprecedented survey also demonstrates our move to a more systematic approach to the collection of data. The most recent data available on sexual violence in Ireland was collected in 2002 and there has been considerable societal change during this period. A stated aim of the third national strategy is that it will deliver an enhanced understanding of the root causes and impacts of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence across society and ensure significant and ongoing reduction in the incidence of this violence. The strategy recognises the importance of research to help us better understand the causes and prevalence of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence and how we can use that to inform better policy in this area. This sexual violence prevalence survey is an important part of delivering on this. We have also committed to working with the CSO to design and run an equivalent national domestic violence prevalence survey. These surveys will be alternated and repeated at five year intervals so that we continue to have up-to-date information to help develop the most effective policy, legislation and services. In addition, the new domestic, sexual and gender-based violence agency will have a dedicated focus on research and data collection.

The findings of this survey provide an evidence base or benchmark from which informed decisions and policy can be made, including in relation to supports and services needed. This information will inform policy in several areas, including justice, equality, health and service provision to victims and survivors, education and children. Over the coming months the CSO will be releasing follow-up thematic surveys based on particular areas and the information provided by those will also be very helpful to a number of Government Departments. We will also have information, not just on the prevalence of sexual violence, but on reporting rates and on the experiences of those who do report.

As I mentioned, the CSO will be repeating this survey every ten years. The findings from these repeat surveys will be particularly insightful in telling us important things like where we are making progress, where there are new challenges, what initiatives are really making a difference and where and whether increased reporting reflects an increase in sexual violence or an increase in the willingness of people to come forward.

I also hope that the data can empower survivors by helping them to understand that they are not alone and encourage them to report their cases and access vital services. The sobering results of this study also contribute to our work on making a significant and sustained impact on public awareness of the extent of the problem. This is vital in changing societal attitudes in the months and years ahead. We are determined to build on this awareness and momentum for change and to achieve zero tolerance for sexual violence and the attitudes that underpin it.

As a Government, we are committed to delivering on the goal of our third national strategy, which is a society that does not accept any form of domestic, sexual or gender based violence. We are determined to work towards creating a society that fully understands the impact and harm of non-consensual sexual behaviour. This survey helps our understanding. It provides important detail and insight on a very serious and sensitive societal issue. I am very aware that it would not have been possible without the support and participation of people who have experienced intense trauma at the hands of someone else. As well as the excellent work of the divisional protection services units in An Garda Síochána, I would also point to the availability of excellent front-line services provided by organisations such as the rape crisis centres, which offer non-judgmental support, a listening ear and information. Information on the full range of support organisations, including specialist support organisations, is available at www.victimscharter.iefor anyone affected.

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