Rape Crisis Network wants definition of consent in new crime Bill

Rape Crisis Network Ireland is calling for a definition of consent to be included in the forthcoming Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Bill 2015.

The network made the call as it holds a public information seminar on the bill.

RCNI director Clíona Saidléar says they recommend a definition similar to that adopted in England and Wales, which states: "A person consents if he agrees by choice, and has the freedom and capacity to make that choice".

She said this protects those who are incapacitated in some way, or have been enslaved by the sex industry.

"The reason why it should be written into law in that way is because it protects the vulnerable in that way at it puts the responsibility back on those, who example, are purchasing sex, to ensure that they know that they have consent," said Ms Saidléar.