Irish Survivors of Male Violence Demand Ban on Counselling Notes in Trials

In a significant demonstration advocating for legislative reform, survivors of male violence and therapists gathered outside the Dáil Éireann in Dublin on June 12, 2025. They rallied in support of a proposed bill aimed at prohibiting the use of complainants' private counselling notes in sexual offences trials. The bill, introduced by Ruth Coppinger, a Teachta Dála (TD) representing Dublin West, seeks to protect the privacy and dignity of victims during legal proceedings, a concern echoed by numerous advocates and affected individuals.

The proposed legislation comes in the wake of broader discussions surrounding the treatment of survivors within the Irish legal system. According to Coppinger, the current practice of allowing the disclosure of private therapy notes often results in further trauma for victims. "How long are we going to have to wait? Why would it take you a year to come up with a bill in the first place?" Coppinger asked during a session in the Dáil, reflecting her frustration over delays in addressing this critical issue.

A pre-trial disclosure hearing is currently mandated to determine the relevance of counselling notes before a trial. However, Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan conceded that the existing framework has not functioned as intended, and the government has proposed amendments to enhance the process. Coppinger's bill, while not opposed by the government, has been met with a conditional timeline for advancement, which critics argue undermines the urgency of the issue.

Support for the bill is bolstered by testimonials from survivors. Sarah Grace, who suffered a traumatic assault in 2019, shared her harrowing experience with the justice system. "The most cruel blow came not at the hands of the man who violated my body, but at the hands of the justice system," she stated, highlighting the emotional toll of having her private therapy notes accessed in court. Grace's testimony reflects a broader concern among survivors about the potential for secondary victimization during trials.

Another survivor, Paula Doyle, who experienced a similar violation, described the legal process as dehumanizing, stating, "I even felt I was the one on trial" due to the use of her counselling notes. Doyle's assertion that this practice constitutes a "second violation" resonates with many advocates who argue that the current system fails to protect victims adequately.

The debate on Coppinger's bill is set to take place in the Dáil at 7:20 PM on the same day as the demonstration, providing an opportunity for legislators to engage directly with the concerns raised by survivors and therapists alike. The ongoing advocacy for legislative reform reflects a growing recognition of the need for a compassionate and victim-centered approach in the Irish justice system. As discussions continue, the voices of survivors remain at the forefront, pressing for reforms that prioritize their rights and well-being in the legal process.

This movement not only highlights the challenges faced by survivors of male violence but also underscores the imperative for systemic change within the legal framework. The outcome of the impending legislative debate could have profound implications for how sexual offences are prosecuted in Ireland, potentially setting a precedent for future reforms aimed at safeguarding the dignity and privacy of victims.