Rape treatment – Project offers way forward for victims

THE Manchester project, whereby nurses receive training to forensically examine rape victims, would prove to be a major stride forward if proven to be practical and adaptable to this country.

Because of the nature of rape, as well as the attendant trauma of a court appearance and a perceived stigma attached to it, albeit a perverse notion, victims are reluctant to report it to the gardaí.

More importantly, the procedures are not geared to encourage victims of this horrific crime to resort to our criminal justice system.