Rape Crisis Network - Government must release vital funds

For the past three years Rape Crisis Network Ireland, the umbrella body for such centres in the country, has been operating under a severe financial burden which is threatening the vital services they provide for victims of rape and sexual assault.

Since 2003, Tánaiste and Health Minister Mary Harney has imposed a cap of €12 million on its funding.

For very practical purposes it needs a further €7m which, so far, has not been forthcoming.