Dangers of drug-aided rape highlighted by campaign

AT least one victim of drug-assisted rape or sexual abuse contacts the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC) every week.

"That's a very worrying number because we are only dealing with the Dublin region," said DRCC chief executive, Muireann O Briain, yesterday.

Ms O Briain's comments came at the start of a public awareness campaign on drug-assisted rape that was launched by Minister of State Willie O'Dea in his capacity as chairperson of the National Steering Committee on Violence Against Women.

According to Rape Crisis Network Ireland, about 130 people who used their services last year said they were victims of drug rape, almost double the number in 2000.

DRCC figures show that 25 to 30 people called to their centre for help in relation to drug rape in 2000 and the centre now receives at least one call a week from victims.

Mr O'Dea said there had been a disturbing increase in sexual offences overall.

"While we can attribute some of the increases to cases which occurred some time in the past which are only now being reported to the gardaí, the conclusion is inescapable the incidence of sexual offences and especially rape has increased worryingly in recent years," he said.

Mr O'Dea, who described drug-assisted rape as a "despicable" crime, said the campaign was a preventative strategy designed to highlight the risks of drug rape to everyone. The campaign will distribute posters warning people of the dangers of leaving their drink unattended.

Mr O'Dea said it was hoped that the posters would help raise awareness that any type of drink might be spiked and that it might happen in a short space of time.

A number of drug-related rapes have been reported to gardaí, but so far they have been unable to get sufficient evidence to prosecute the alleged perpetrators.

"I don't want people who commit such crimes to think they can get away with it. That's why we want to encourage victims to report it as soon as possible so there is a better chance of securing a conviction."

Mr O'Dea said the committee was also exploring the possibility of extending the campaign into second level schools for Leaving Certificate students.

"Because people are sexually active at such a young age now we have to recognise that as a reality. There is no point turning a blind eye or burying our heads in the sand."

Janice Ranson, projects manager with Rape Crisis Network Ireland, welcomed the campaign but said the onus should not just be on the woman to protect herself.

Society also needed to change its thinking on the issue of a woman's bodily integrity, she said.

"Drug-assisted rape has been going on for generations. It's the drug of choice that is different today. In the past it would have been alcohol. Today it is more chemical-based," Ms Ranson said.