Rape Crisis NE offering support

THE Dundalk based Rape Crisis North East (RCNE) network responded to the fall out from comments made on social media by a Drogheda F.C footballer in relation to the recent Belfast rape trial.

Payer Luke Rossiter has apologised for deragotary remarks he made about the complainant in the trial, and has offered to donate his wages for the remainder of the football season to the RCNE.

Speaking about the incident, Grace McArdle, Manager of Rape Crisis North East said: ‘We really welcome the fact that Luke Rossiter, Drogheda United footballer, recognises that his comments in relation to the Belfast rape trial on Twitter was unacceptable and inappropriate.’

She went on the explain how the high profile trial has resonated with everyone affected by the issue.

‘ The trial of Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding, Blane McIlroy and Rory Harrison has had a deep impact on us all.’

She added: ‘We would be happy to accept Luke Rossiter’s offer of donating his wages for the rest of the season to Rape Crisis North East.’

‘We want to say today to survivors of sexual crime that when you need us or are ready to talk about what happened to you we in Rape Crisis North East will be there for you, we believe you, and we will support you. If you are a survivor or a supporter of rape and or sexual violence, childhood sexual violence or sexual abuse, please contact Rape Crisis North East at Cherrywood Counselling Centre, The Great Northern Distillery Offices, Carrickmacross Road, Dundalk on our Freephone Confidential Telephone Number: 1800 21 21 22 and a counsellor will be available to speak with you.

She explained that the RCNE services are available to all survivors and supporters living within the North East region of Ireland and surrounding areas including: Louth, Meath, Monaghan and Cavan. Information and details about our services can be found on our website: www.rcne.ie.