'People impacted by sexual assault need the justice system to be more victim-centered'

The criminal justice system 'fails to adequately support victims engaging with it, at what is an extremely difficult and emotive time' according to justice committee Cathaoirleach, James Lawless. Picture: Denis Minihane

A more victim-centred approach must be taken by the criminal justice processes for those impacted by sexual assault, according to a report from the joint committee on justice.

The report argues that a more victim-centred approach would help make more victims feel encouraged to come forward to report such crimes and could reduce the possibility of retraumatisation of victims.