Rape Crisis Network calls for new legislation on child sex abuse

People who work with children need to be trained to identify the effects of child sexual abuse.

Legislation governing the mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse must be brought in as soon as possible, according to the Rape Crisis Network.

The organisation has also called for people who work with children need to be trained to identify the effects of sex abuse.

It was commenting on yesterday's sentencing of a man who raped and sexually assaulted his daughter for more than a decade.

Ray Mulvey (aged 65) of Ferney Grove, Mahon, Co Cork was yesterday sentenced to 12 years, with six suspended.

He can be named because his victim, his 41-year-old daughter Lorraine, waived her right to anonymity.

"Many many victims of sexual abuse, child sexual abuse in particular, when they were asked why didn't you tell, their response was: 'Nobody asked me'," said director of the Rape Crisis Network of Ireland, Fiona Neary.

"We can't just leave that burden to the child.

"All of us, as citizens, have to be aware in looking after all children. Youth leaders,. teachers, need to be equipped to identify the signs of child sexual abuse."