Leaving Cert revellers urged to stay safe

Sexual predators were today warned they could be accused of rape if they target drunk Leaving Cert students.

Revellers were also told not to get themselves in a vulnerable situation when out celebrating their results and to be vigilant whether at home or overseas.

Ellen O’Malley-Dunlop, of Dublin Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC), said there had been an increase in young men and women being raped or sexually assaulted while marking their exam success, attending outdoor summer events, or holidaying abroad.

She advised them not to get separated from friends, keep hold of their drinks at all times, and not to go to remote places.

“It is terribly sad to see young people absolutely devastated after experiencing a rape or a sexual assault while holidaying with friends abroad, celebrating exam results or attending concerts here in Ireland,” said Ms O’Malley-Dunlop.

“In these particular incidents the young people we see at the centre are usually under 20 years of age and these experiences are very shocking for everyone involved.

“We are also issuing a warning to potential perpetrators that having sexual intercourse with a person without their consent constitutes rape.

“It is a violation of a person’s human rights to take advantage of another person when they are in a vulnerable situation. We urge that these crimes are reported and that the perpetrators are appropriately punished.”

The former 53,000 secondary school students collecting their results were also warned to celebrate sensibly.

Revellers were urged to eat before drinking alcohol, carry ID, plan ahead and look out for friends.

Fionnuala Sheehan, of Meas – Mature Enjoyment of Alcohol in Society Limited - said: “After the tension and stress of the June exams and the anxious wait for the results, students will be looking forward to celebrating on Wednesday.

“We would encourage students to plan ahead and check out the drinkaware.ie website to ensure their night is one to remember for all the right reasons.”

For those who do not feel they achieved what they expected, the Institute of Guidance Counsellors (IGC) will open its helplines for students and their parents and answer concerns and queries about their results and college offers.

The helpline – 1800 265 165 – will open from 10am to 8pm on Wednesday; 9am to 8am Thursday; 9am to 4pm on Friday and 10am to 8pm next Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

IGC President Eilis Coakley said when students do not achieve the goals set for themselves, their dreams may seem shattered and in some cases self esteem can plummet.

“Whatever the outcome, having access to Guidance professionals at the end of a telephone line to provide good counsel will help students refocus and find direction again,” he said.

“I am encouraging students to be positive and not to be too downhearted should the Leaving Certificate results not go according to plan.

“There were never so many courses and opportunities available to school leavers. In 1977 there were just 69 courses on offer in this country. Today the number of courses has jumped to 1,184.”

Meanwhile students and members of Labour Youth will hold a demonstration tomorrow at the Department of Education against a move to reintroduce college fees.

Campaigns officer Gary Honer said: “Since the introduction of free fees by the then Labour minister for education Niamh Bhreathnach participation at third level has increased, but sadly funding has not.

“Our education system should be one that is based on ’merit not means’.”