Sex-abuse victims ‘retraumatised’ by rugby rape trial

Women who have suffered sexual abuse were “retraumatised” by the details of the Belfast rape trial and the way in which the woman at the centre of the case was treated in court.

Pro-choice campaigners made the claim as they said the “genuine outpouring” of anger over the verdict is “very relevant” to the Eighth Amendment campaign and underlines the need to ensure a yes vote in the May 25 referendum.

Speaking at the launch of a Together For Yes position paper on how Ireland’s abortion laws are negatively affecting rape victims, Women’s Aid director Margaret Martin said the high-profile nature of the case has impacted on rape victims.