Government accused of failing rape victims

THE Rape Crisis Network Ireland (RCNI) has accused the Government of reneging on a promise to increase funding for its services despite an alarming rise in attacks on women.

The decision was taken despite a Government report commissioned last year which found "a prima facie basis for concern at the level of funding in the sector."

The report, which recommended ring-fencing money in the Budget for the violence against women (VAW) sector, was ignored in December's Budget, despite a commitment it would be reviewed. Funding has been capped at €12m annually since 2002, leaving the Rape Crisis Network with a shortfall of €7m.