Rape support network loses its funding

The country’s rape support services face disarray after Tusla pulled the plug on funding for their co-ordinating body.

Funding for the Rape Crisis Network of Ireland (RCNI) ceased 10 weeks ago and acting director Cliona Saidlear said it could not continue as Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, provided 70% of its income.

“We are running on empty. They have effectively shut us down,” she said.