A review of protections for victims of sexual offences recognises how such offences are different from other crimes, the Chief Executive of the Rape Crisis Centre has said.

A review of protections for victims of sexual offences recognises how such offences are different from other crimes, the Chief Executive of the Rape Crisis Centre has said. 
Noeline Blackwell said the victim of a sexual offence is entitled to have a hearing that allows them to tell their account accurately and fairly without being re-traumatised. 
A working group was set up to review legislation here following a high-profile trial in Northern Ireland in 2018.
Among the recommendations of the group, which were published in a report today, all victims of sexual offences should have the opportunity to receive free legal advice. 
Speaking on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland, Ms Blackwell said information and support are key areas identified in the report that need to be implemented quickly. 
She said “the loneliest person” on the journey to prosecution for a sexual offence is the victim, who is often left lacking in support, information and basic legal advice. 
She welcomed the proposals to establish a clear pathway before a case is set down for hearing, “so that when it comes to hearing, somebody will get heard on the day” and that anonymity will be granted in respect of all sexual assault cases. 
Ms Blackwell said pre-trial applications discussing the complainants’ sexual history are important to ensure that a complainant is not hit by an application that is “disconcerting at the very least, and horrifying to say the most” at the last minute. 
Helpline
Rape Crisis Centre – (24 hrs) 1800 77 88 88Web – www.drcc.ie