RCNI backs calls for anonymity in sex assault cases

The Rape Crisis Network of Ireland has backed calls for the accused in sex assault cases to have the same right to anonymity as the alleged victim, until found guilty.

Earlier this month, Eamon Power, aged 35, from Limerick, was unanimously found not guilty of sexually assaulting a teenage girl.

Outside the court he broke down, and said the publication of his name and address had affected his job prospects and his health.

Cliona Saidlear of RCNI said anonymity was only guaranteed in cases of rape that come before the Central Criminal Court.

The RCNI chairs the legal issues sub-committee of the national steering committee on violence against women and has recommended the principle of anonymity stretch to a broader range of cases.

“We do not see any advantage in it,” she said of the current system. “There are no gains and we see some risks. There is no point in potentially undermining the rights of the defendant. Justice has to be fair to both sides, otherwise it’s not justice.

“Anonymity should only be extended to the point of conviction. But if names are out there, then any future attempt to bring another case [in the event of an earlier case collapsing or the defendant being found not guilty] may be damaged.”

She said broadening the right to anonymity in more sexually-related cases would not harm the retention and use of “soft information” as might be required under future legislation linked to vetting.

Speaking after the verdict, Mr Power said the law needed to be changed so as to protect the anonymity of the accused until the event of a guilty verdict.