The Trial That Exposed Society’s Darkest Truths In a small courtroom in Avignon, where justice often feels like an abstract concept, one woman, Gisèle Pelicot, stood unshaken against a wall of darkness. Fifty defendants, their faces etched with denial, shame, and arrogance, made their final statements. Fifty men who had lived among us as normal…
Sara’s Bruises Were Seen. Her Screams Were Heard. So Why Was Nothing Done? The case of Sara Sharif’s horrific abuse and murder is a damning indictment of a child protection system that has once again failed a vulnerable child. Sara’s story is not just a tragedy, it is an urgent call for society to reassess…
How Character References Continue To Diminish Victim’s Trauma The case of Martin O’Brien, a 54-year-old man from Gurrane, Belclare, Tuam, Co Galway, who was sentenced to six years in prison for repeatedly sexually assaulting his children’s teenage babysitter, Áine McHugh, is a harsh reminder of the pervasive issues surrounding sexual abuse and the justice system’s…
Shattering the Silence The conviction and sentencing of Barry Murphy for his crimes against Lisa O’Meara is a sobering reminder of the dark reality of domestic violence. Murphy, a 39-year-old from Offaly, was sentenced to 14-and-a-half years for coercive control, rape, assault, and false imprisonment of his former partner. While justice has been served,…
Time for Irish Rugby to Tackle the Deep-Rooted Culture of Misogyny The recent sentencing of Irish rugby player Denis Coulson to 14 years in prison for the 2017 gang rape of a student in France shines a light on the deep-seated misogyny within the sport and the structural failures of the Irish Rugby Football…
When will women be able to walk through the world without fear of violence? This is the question that haunts us all. On December 1, 2024, Vanessa O’Callaghan was brutally assaulted as she left a soup kitchen in Cork City. The 36-year-old mother of three succumbed to her injuries three days later, leaving behind grieving…
Domestic Violence Does Not Discriminate – A Society Failing Women and Children Eight-year-old Malika Noor Al Katib tragically lost her life after trying to protect her mother during a violent altercation in New Ross, Wexford. Malika, in her innocence and bravery, stepped between her mother and an alleged assailant, believing her presence could shield her…
Ending the Blame Game – How Ireland Can Lead in Tackling Gender-Based Violence A recent survey conducted by the European Commission offers a sobering reminder of the work still needed to combat violence against women and the stereotypes that enable it. While Ireland demonstrates leadership in rejecting some forms of abuse, harmful attitudes remain entrenched…
When public figures like Gregg Wallace dismiss harassment allegations, what message does it send to employees experiencing similar issues in their own jobs? Gregg Wallace’s response to accusations of inappropriate behaviour has ignited widespread backlash and raised serious questions about workplace culture and accountability. The allegations against the MasterChef presenter include inappropriate sexual jokes, undressing…
Women on Trial: How Nikita Hand’s Case Highlights the Treatment of Rape Survivors The civil rape case brought against Conor McGregor has captured national and international attention, drawing intense scrutiny to the treatment of victims in sexual assault trials. The case, which concluded with a jury finding McGregor guilty of rape and awarding the plaintiff,…
Where Does the Entitlement Stem From? A recent report by Women’s Aid, conducted in partnership with Core, sheds light on the troubling persistence of traditionalist views of manhood among Irish men. Despite decades of progress toward gender equality, two in five Irish men still hold traditionalist attitudes, while more than half agree or remain uncertain…
Women Are Done Waiting. When Will Women Finally Be Paid Their Worth? As of today, I, like many women across the globe, am effectively working for free for the rest of the year. This isn’t hyperbole – it’s a harsh reality. The gender pay gap is now 11.3%, up from 10.7% last year. This disparity…
50 Men, One Voice – Gisèle Pelicot Takes a Stand Against Sexual Violence In a courtroom in Avignon, France, a 71-year-old woman stood before the world and transformed her trauma into a clarion call for justice. Gisèle Pelicot’s unyielding courage, her demand for transparency, and her ability to hold an entire patriarchal system to account…
Breaking the Silence: Tackling Northern Ireland’s Hidden Crisis of Domestic Violence Domestic violence in Northern Ireland has reached alarming levels, resembling a hidden pandemic that cannot be ignored. Despite its devastating impact, society often fails to treat violence against women within intimate relationships with the seriousness it warrants. Why is it that women’s murders in…
Family and community await answers as Gardaí detain long-standing person of interest, reigniting hope for justice in the unsolved disappearance of JoJo Dullard. JoJo Dullard’s disappearance nearly three decades ago left a deep wound in her family and community, one that has festered in the uncertainty and heartbreak of not knowing what happened to…
The recent report by Women’s Aid, in collaboration with Trinity College Dublin and the Disabled Gender-Based Violence Taskforce, reveals the harrowing experiences of disabled women who endure abuse from their intimate partners. This study, titled “Disabled Women’s Experience of Intimate Partner Abuse in Ireland,” reveals the profound cruelty and manipulation faced by these women, who often…
Thank you for your courage Kathleen. In a world where silence often shrouds the darkest corners of domestic abuse, Kathleen Correia’s decision to waive her legal right to anonymity stands as a beacon of courage and hope. Her story is not just a personal testament but a powerful message to countless others trapped in the…
Why ‘Mental Health Awareness’ Falls Short in Toxic Workplaces Workplace discrimination against individuals with mental health issues persists, even as companies claim to be more open to employing those with such challenges. In reality, many people with known mental health conditions already hold positions in the workforce. So why do we continue to…
Can We Stop the Normalisation of Male Brutality The recent case of a young woman being held prisoner and tortured is another disturbing reminder of the horrifying realities of male violence. Yet, once this story fades from headlines, we must ask ourselves, what are we truly doing to confront and dismantle the normalisation of such…
Kris Kristofferson, the legendary American singer-songwriter and actor, passed away over the weekend, leaving behind a legacy of extraordinary creativity and a life of unyielding principle. Known for hits like “Me and Bobby McGee” and his work in films such as A Star is Born, Kristofferson’s talents and convictions stretched far beyond the entertainment industry.…
A Voice for Every Woman in the Fight Against Male Violence Every day seems to bring a new horror, another story of depravity that makes us question humanity’s capacity for evil. Yesterday, we learned that the youngest of the men accused of raping a woman, part of a group orchestrated by Dominique Pelicot, was…
The Sinister Charm of “Snakes in Suits” Join us on The FEMCAST as we welcome back Dr. Jennifer Fraser, the insightful author of “The Bullied Brain,” for a compelling discussion on the pervasive issue of gaslighting and trauma in our everyday lives and workplaces. In this episode, we delve into the chilling realities…
Justice Fails – How a Lenient Sentence Betrays Our Children The decision to suspend Huw Edwards’ sentence for soliciting child sexual abuse material is a national disgrace and a glaring failure of the justice system. It is unfathomable that a man who actively sought out and consumed such vile content could avoid prison, raising…
The tragic and horrific murder of Kristina Joksimovic, a former Miss Switzerland finalist, has deeply affected the fabric of society, highlighting once again, the pervasive issue of male violence against women. Kristina’s life was brutally cut short by her husband, who displayed a chilling lack of empathy and sadistic tendencies. This case hammers home the…
The Horror of Gisèle Pélicot’s Decade of Abuse and Community Complicity – the men involved, included neighbours and community members … a local councillor, nurses, a journalist, a former police officer, a prison guard, a soldier, a firefighter, and a civil servant. The harrowing story of Gisèle Pélicot is an ugly reminder of the pervasive…
These headlines are not only tiresome and lazy but also perpetuate harmful stereotypes, failing to recognise the profound courage and quest for justice demonstrated by survivors like Gisele Pelicot. The recent headline in the Telegraph regarding the case of Gisele Pelicot is a disgusting example of the pervasive misogyny that continues to plague media…
Olympic Star’s Life Cut Short: The Brutal Reality of Male Violence Against Women The tragic death of Ugandan Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei has cast a dark shadow over the world of sports and highlighted the persistent and horrifying issue of men’s violence against women. Cheptegei, a 33-year-old marathon runner, was doused in petrol and set…
Tragic Death of Nurse Highlights Rising Violence Against Migrant Workers in Newry The tragic death of Anu Okusanya, a nurse who collapsed and died after fleeing from a gang of thugs in Newry, has cast intense scrutiny on the escalating violence against migrant workers in the area and the apparent inaction of the Police…
The Silent Struggle of Children Without School Places, Parents Battle for Their Children’s Right to Education We often take for granted the routine of returning to school, grumbling about the cost of uniforms and books, and the hassle of preparing lunches. However, we should spare a thought for the children who do not have a…
Unveiling the Dark Legacy of Institutional Cruelty Last night, RTE1 aired a harrowing documentary titled “STOLEN,” which delved into the dark and depraved world of slavery and cruelty that many women found themselves ensnared in. It was a hard watch, a cruel reminder of the control exerted by both the church and the state,…
Goodbye to a Trailblazer – Celebrating the Life of Nell McCafferty Nell McCafferty, born on March 28, 1944, in the Bogside area of Derry, Northern Ireland, was a towering figure in Irish journalism, literature, and feminist activism. Her life and work have left an indelible mark on Irish society, particularly in the realms of women’s…
Over the weekend, I finally had a chance to see “It Ends With Us”, a film I’d been eager to watch since missing its premiere. The buzz surrounding the movie has been inescapable, with nearly every website plastered with stories about the stars and their so-called “artistic differences.” Blake Lively, along with writer and producer…
A ‘perfectly lovely’ psychopath? Thing is that few psychopaths fit the ominous Hollywood stereotype. It’s all too easy to be targeted by an arch-manipulator, whose real aim in life is to control you. Clients and friends tell me how a psychopath is exciting to be with. Attentive, lovely, kind, thoughtful, funny; a charming and interesting…
Kellie Harrington has once again etched her name into the annals of Olympic history by defending her title at the 2024 Olympics, becoming a two-time gold medallist. Her journey to this monumental achievement is a testament not only to her individual prowess but also to the unwavering support of her team and community. Kellie has…
From Mourning to Mayhem, Rioters Turn Vigil into Violence The violence that erupted on Tuesday evening in Southport is an ugly reminder of the pervasive issue of men’s violence in our society. Frontline emergency service workers, who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving the public, were met with unspeakable violence while simply…
The tragic case of Valerie French Kilroy, who was brutally murdered by her husband James Kilroy, highlights the urgent need for legislative reform to protect the rights and well-being of children who lose a parent to domestic violence. This case, along with the recent introduction of “Jade’s Law” in the UK, highlights the critical importance…
When the judicial system functions as intended, it is indeed a joy to behold. The sentencing today of Raymond Shorten, a taxi driver who preyed on vulnerable women and a child, is a testament to the law catching up with predators who can no longer hide behind their deceitful language and the all-too-common defence of…
Today, the court handed down a 13-year prison sentence to Raymond Shorten, a convicted rapist, for the rape of a seven-year-old girl in 2012. This case is particularly harrowing and sinister, as the rape occurred during a time of immense vulnerability for the child – at her mother’s funeral. The trauma of losing her mother,…
In a distressing and harrowing case, a 67-year-old man from Carlow has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the habitual rape and assault of his wife over a span of 25 years, subjecting her to what was described in court as “25 years of hell.” The severity of his crimes and the prolonged period over…
Michael White’s conviction and subsequent professional banishment should serve as a powerful reminder, domestic violence will be met with stringent legal and professional consequences. This action is a significant move towards ensuring that victims are supported and that perpetrators are held accountable, ultimately working to deter future instances of domestic violence and fostering a culture…
A Staggering 26,000 Domestic Abuse Reports Made to Gardaí Since June 2024: A Harrowing Reality In a shocking revelation, a staggering 26,000 reports of domestic abuse have been made to An Garda Síochána since the beginning of June 2024. This grim statistic equates to one report every ten minutes, highlighting the pervasive and relentless…
Yet another suspended sentence to an offender caught with child abuse material, including images and videos. This decision not only fails to deliver justice for the innocent victims but also sends a dangerous message that such heinous crimes can be met with leniency. Protecting perpetrators of child abuse material undermines the severity of the…
Police were called to a detached house in northern Bushey, near Watford, shortly before 7 pm on Tuesday, July 9, 2024. Upon arrival, along with ambulance staff, they discovered three women with “serious injuries.” According to Hertfordshire Constabulary, “Sadly, despite their best efforts, the women, who are believed to be related, died a short time…
Tori Towey’s situation is a disturbing reminder of the systemic failings in protecting domestic violence victims in certain jurisdictions. Her case is not just a legal issue but a human rights concern that demands immediate attention and action from both national and international bodies. The charges against her should be dropped, the travel ban lifted,…
The case of Raymond Shorten, a taxi driver who was allowed to continue working despite previous convictions for sexual offenses, has raised significant concerns about the regulatory systems in place to protect the public. It has now also come to light that the taxi driver who was convicted last month of raping two young…
In a harrowing revelation, multiple female footballers have come forward with allegations of unwanted and inappropriate sexual advances by Football Association of Ireland (FAI) coaches during the 1990s. This information emerged through a joint investigation by RTÉ Investigates and the Sunday Independent, bringing to light the experiences of former international players and trainees on Ireland’s…
Where’s the Outcry? Malnourished Mothers, Starving Babies … Feminists Worldwide Must Act Now! The genocide in Gaza and the plight of newborn babies is heart-wrenching. According to a report from The Kamal Adwan hospital in northern Gaza, the survival chances for newborns are dire. Mothers, malnourished to the point where they cannot breastfeed, are…
The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act in Sierra Leone is a monumental step toward gender equality and the protection of children’s rights. It is a measure that is certainly not before its time, given the long-standing issues of child marriage in the country. While the law alone cannot eradicate the deeply ingrained cultural practices overnight,…
The recent revelation that a Dublin maternity hospital has appointed Dr. Christopher Morris, a doctor with a criminal conviction for assaulting two women, to a position where he will likely treat domestic violence victims, raises profound concerns about the priorities and values within our health system. This situation not only highlights the systemic failure…
The recent case of a doctor convicted of raping his wife is an unsettling reminder of the persistent issue of violence and entitlement that men often exhibit towards women. The doctor, a 36-year-old Leinster resident, has been sentenced to eight years in prison for the horrific crime of anal rape and false imprisonment. This case…
Bláthnaid Raleigh’s story is a testament to courage and resilience in the face of unimaginable trauma. In 2019, Raleigh was raped by Jonathan ‘Johnny’ Moran in a garden shed in Galway, a horrific event that profoundly impacted her life. However, Raleigh’s bravery in waiving her anonymity to name her attacker and share her story publicly…
Judge Tom O’Donnell, who controversially handed a three-year suspended sentence to a 22-year-old soldier who brutally assaulted a woman in Limerick two years ago, is set to retire this week. The decision has sparked widespread outrage, particularly among advocates for women’s rights, who highlight the pervasive issue of lenient sentencing for violence against women, sexual…
Yesterday’s court decision by Judge Tom O’Donnell to give Cathal Crotty, an Irish soldier, a suspended sentence after he brutally assaulted Natasha O’Brien knocking her unconscious is a stark example of the systemic failures in addressing men’s violence against women. Crotty, who attacked O’Brien without provocation, punched her multiple times, and boasted about it…
The upcoming Supreme Court ruling in India on the issue of marital rape is a crucial moment in the ongoing struggle for women’s rights and gender equality. Despite decades of advocacy and significant progress in many areas, the idea that marriage grants a man unrestricted rights over his wife’s body remains entrenched in Indian law.…
The Bruce Lehrmann case has stirred widespread outrage and condemnation, shedding light on the dark corridors of power and the abuse of privilege. Lehrmann, a former political staffer, stands accused of a heinous crime – the rape of Brittany Higgins on a minister’s couch in Parliament House in 2019. However, what has exacerbated the gravity…
The recent murders of six people in Sydney’s Bondi Junction over the weekend has sent shockwaves through communities, reigniting discussions on misogyny, violence, and the dangerous echo chambers of online extremism. As details emerge, it becomes increasingly evident that the perpetrator’s actions were not merely isolated acts of violence but indicative of a broader societal…
Remembering Professor Evan Stark, sociologist, forensic social worker, widely published author and an award-winning researcher with an international reputation for his innovative work on the legal, policy and health dimensions of interpersonal violence, including its effects on children. A towering figure whose groundbreaking work on coercive control has revolutionised our understanding and approach to…
Last night RTE aired “Taking Back Control” a documentary that sheds light on the impact of coercive control and the experience of one very brave lady, Nicola Hanney. Nicola, the former partner of the jailed garda who carried out this campaign of psychological abuse and control, has spoken publicly for the first time about…
Over the weekend, another woman fell victim to the scourge of domestic violence, leaving behind two devastated daughters and a grandchild she will never see growing up. The ripple effect of such tragedies leaves families traumatised for generations to come. These incidents demand the same level of societal outrage as the high-profile cases, such…