Govt to fast-track underage sex laws

THE Government is to fast-track legislation to close the loophole relating to carnal knowledge of underage girls.

The Cabinet is expected to give approval today for detailed amending legislation which will be ready to be put before the Dáil and Seanad within two weeks.

A Government spokesman said Justice Minister Michael McDowell will brief the Cabinet at its weekly meeting today and outline proposals for the legislation which will provide for the age of sexual consent to be lowered from 17 years to 16 years for both males and females.