McDowell must fast-track rape trials for sake of victims, urges Fine Gael

FINE GAEL has called on Justice Minister Michael McDowell to fast-track rape trials so the number of convictions will rise.

Fine Gael justice spokesman Jim O’Keeffe said there is “something seriously wrong” with procedures in this country if just 5% of reported rape cases end in convictions.

“The prosecution process, which is supposed to administer justice, is instead getting in the way of successful convictions. The main problems are the long delay, the vulnerability of the victim and the lack of adequate support in terms of counselling and mentoring,” he said.

“But most of all, the system refuses to recognise that those at the heart of the process are victims, and not mere witnesses.”

Mr O’Keefe called on Mr McDowell to instigate a review of the system in favour of the victim. “Measures should include fast-tracking trials in order to minimise the suffering to the victim, and the provision of far more extensive victim support from the moment the rape is reported,” he said.

“This is a massive problem with a horrendous crime which has to be confronted. It must be seen through the eyes of the victims, and there has to be a higher rate of conviction.”

Mr McDowell has said the poor rate of conviction in rape cases posed “very serious cause for concern”.

Last week, he said he didn’t know why the DPP frequently decided not to proceed with rape cases.

“The DPP is statutorily independent in the performance of its functions and therefore it’s inappropriate for me to comment on his decisions,” he said.

However, he suggested that the DPP may be operating more restrictive rules than counterparts in other countries and that the length of time it takes to pursue a trial could be discouraging people from following a case through.