Fiona O'Loughlin (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I formally second the motion before the House this evening. I congratulate Senator Ruane on all her work in this area. I also take note of what Senator Norris said. I acknowledge that the former Senator, Deputy Bacik, was involved in the initiation of this. Obviously, she has moved Houses.

I welcome the opportunity Senator Ruane has afforded to us all to speak on such important issues. Bullying and sexual harassment have no place in our third level institutions, workplaces, homes or anywhere in our society.

We have seen the issue of sexual harassment and bullying in the headlines more often in recent times than ever before. It is good a light is being shone on it. Addressing sexual violence and harassment must be a priority for all of us in these Houses and all in the third level sector. We must be leaders in this field in calling out unacceptable behaviour.

Senator Ruane spoke very eloquently and at length on non-disclosure agreements. I completely agree these agreements should not be used by third level institutions where instances of bullying and sexual harassment arise. They run completely contrary to the values of transparency, consistency and integrity which are embodied in the framework for consent. I acknowledge the Minister is due to introduce legislation. I ask him to strengthen that legislation to ensure the intentions expressed by this Bill and amendment would be put in place.

A report conducted by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights on violence against women found women between the ages of 18 and 29 are significantly more vulnerable to sexual harassment than the general population. The World Health Organization estimates one in three women worldwide has experienced either physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. We cannot allow this culture of abuse to continue and we must do everything in our power to protect and support victims of sexual abuse. The treatment of victims who come forward is a very pertinent aspect of our discussion. According to the National Women's Council of Ireland, 21% of Irish people think there are understandable reasons for having sexual intercourse without consent. That is rape and we should call it what it is. It is shocking that 23% of Irish people believe women often make up or exaggerate claims of abuse or rape. We must tackle this stigmatisation head on and we absolutely must ensure that when matters of sexual harassment and violence are reported in the third level sector, the victims are met with appropriate compassion and empathy; we must not deter people from coming forward. We must ensure the communication channels within our third level institutions are open, compassionate and victim-centred. Consent is a fundamental aspect of this debate. Our young people must know what is and is not consent. They must know what is and is not acceptable. They must know what is and is not harassment. We must protect our students, staff and young women and men in this country.

In June I welcomed the publication by higher education institutes of their action plans aimed at ending sexual violence and harassment. It is really important each institution sets out for staff and students what is intended in the area. It is important that institutions report to the Higher Education Authority every year on the progress being made because accountability is very important. It is vital that staff and students have faith in the plans implemented by each institution, and each institution must be held to account on commitments. We must see a wholesale culture shift within the higher education system. We must start teaching and speaking about these matters earlier. Education on all such matters must be updated to better represent the reality of life for our young people today.

Implementation is the key metric and we must see real reforms that have a real impact on the ground. We must see our young people protected and supported. I commend this motion and again I put on record my gratitude to Senator Ruane for all her work in the area.