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Limerick activists highlight improvements needed in the justice system for victims of sexual violence
Limerick sexual violence victims address issues in the justice system. Sonya Stokes, Leona O’Callaghan, both from Limerick, and Shaneda Daly, met with Sinn Féin representatives in Leinster House
victims and survivors of sexual violence, Sonya Stokes, Leona O’Callaghan, both from Limerick, and Shaneda Daly, met with Sinn Féin representatives at Leinster House on June 26, 2025
Sonya Stokes, Leona O’Callaghan from Limerick and Shaneda Daly – all victims and survivors of rape, met with Sinn Féin representatives at Leinster House on June 26, 2025.
They spoke directly with Deputy Matt Carthy, Senator Maria McCormack of Laois, party leader Mary Lou McDonald, and many other Oireachtas members for a second meeting on improvements needed in the justice system for victims of sexual violence.
Matt Carthy introduced the Access to Justice – Civil Protection Orders Bill 2025. This important legislation, which passed First Stage in the Dáil today, proposes a new legal provision that would allow a person, where a court has found that an offence of sexual violence was committed against them, to be granted a civil protection order.
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Matt stated clearly, “We need to empower victims and survivors and help them, as much as possible, to regain the sense of safety and security needed to rebuild their lives.” This directly speaks to the concerns we raised and reflects the spirit of the campaign we are building.
Sonya states, “Personally, I came away from the meeting inspired – by Matt, by Maria, and by the other representatives who listened and engaged with such empathy and determination. This is only the beginning of an ongoing campaign. Through my platform Victims Voices, and in collaboration with others, I am committed to supporting victims and survivors of domestic and sexual violence”
Leona shared how her perpetrator is a repeat offender. She dreads the day he is released back into the same town, onto the same streets she and her children walk. This bill, she says, will offer real protection for those who come after her. “At the end of the process, we deserve a sense of safety. We are tired of fighting. We are so grateful to Matt and Maria for listening, caring, and most importantly – acting.”
Shaneda added, “We will continue to support survivors and push for the changes so desperately needed in this country, even as we navigate a flawed legal system. We may look okay on the outside, but inside, we carry the scars. That’s why we fight – for those who come after us.”
“We are survivors – and we are determined to ensure our voices lead to change,” said the group.
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