Parents to fight ruling on alleged assault

A KERRY couple, whose Down syndrome daughter was deemed unfit to give evidence against a man alleged to have sexually attacked her, are taking their fight to the European Court of Human Rights.

Noel and Ann Kelly from Ballybunion say the Irish justice system is incapable of protecting those with special needs.

The case is also being highlighted by Fine Gael’s Alan Shatter who will attempt to amend Criminal Evidence Act legislation when the Dáil resumes after summer holidays next month. Until the legislation is changed it would remain “open season” for anyone with a perverse sexual view to take advantage of those with special needs, Mr Shatter said.