SF: Govt should contact families of sex-offender victims

Sinn Féin has called on the Government to contact the families of all young victims of sex offenders.

The call comes amid reports that six more prisoners serving time solely for having sex with a minor could now appeal their convictions.

It follows last week's Supreme Court decision, which found that part of the legislation governing statutory rape is unconstitutional.

Caoimhín Ó Caoláin of Sinn Féin said it is vital the families affected by these cases don't hear news of their releases from the media.

“We are not quite certain of the numbers involved who might very well qualify for release in terms of a court challenge as to the constitutionality of their further detention,” he said.

Deputy Ó Caoláin added: “I think it's imperative that the families don't learn of this through the media, that they are given proper consideration by the department and the department goes and meets them as a priority.”