Sentences must be consistent

Waterford City Council echoed the public concern generally felt about the inconsistency of sentences handed down by the courts for rape and sexual assault.

A motion in the name of Independent Councillor Mary Roche calling for the introduction of mandatory sentences was endorsed by the council, which is also seeking the support of other local authorities in this campaign.

Too often have women been courageous enough to report a rape, and endure a court appearance, only to see the convicted perpetrator handed a lenient sentence.