Press Release – The proposed Constitutional Amendent on Children

The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre welcomes the publication of the wording of the proposed Constitutional Amendment on Children and the naming of the date for the Referendum 

Ellen O’Malley-Dunlop, Chief Executive DRCC said ; “Today is indeed a historic day for the future welfare and protection of the children of Ireland. It is also a historic day for the many adults who as children suffered huge abuses at the hands of adults who were supposed to protect them. It is nearly 20 years since the Kilkenny Incest case and the recommendation of former Supreme Court Justice Catherine McGuinness, to have the rights of the child enshrined in the Constitution. 17 further harrowing reports validated the stories of childhood sexual abuse we heard and still hear in the therapy rooms and on the National 24 hour Helpline 1 800 77 88 88.
 
A lot of work had been done in the past, and previous Governments had endeavoured to deliver a cross party agreed wording to include the specific rights of the child in the Constitution. We are delighted to witness the huge progress made by Minister Frances Fitzgerald and her new Department of Children and Youth Affairs in presenting this wording today and in naming a date, November 10th,  for the Referendum. We congratulate her and we welcome the proposed 31st amendment of the Constitution.”
 
ENDS
 
For further information please contact:
Ellen O’Malley-Dunlop, Chief Executive, DRCC                        01 661 4911 / 086 809 9618