Calls for DPP to give reasons for not pursuing rape cases

THE DPP should be made accountable and give reasons for decisions not to pursue rape cases, leading academics and rape help groups have urged.

The call follows widespread concern over the small number of rape convictions compared to a rising number of detected rape and sexual assault cases.

Figures released by the Department of Justice in July show that sexual offences increased by 886 to 1,956 last year an 83% increase on the year before.