Character references for sexual offenders must now be vouched and can be cross-examined in court 

Character references for sexual offenders must now be vouched and can be cross-examined in court 

Dublin Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC) welcomes the enactment from today of legislation mandating that individuals providing character references for sexual offenders must be sworn in and can be cross-examined in court. The Criminal Law (Sexual Offences & Human Trafficking) Act 2023 is in force from today. 

Rachel Morrogh, Chief Executive of DRCC, stated, "We know that positive character references can be extremely retraumatising for victims who have already endured a difficult legal process and DRCC has been raising this issue for a number of years. 

“From today, character references presented at sentencing must be made via oath or affidavit. This will ensure that the person who is giving the reference must swear to the truthfulness of their statement. It can also mean they may be cross examined on what they say. We believe this will encourage them to consider more carefully the weight and implications of their references." 

“It is crucial that those who offer character references for sexual offenders are fully aware of the impact their statements can have on victims and survivors. 

"This legislation represents a significant step toward ensuring our courts are more victim-centered," Morrogh added, "but there is still more work to be done."