Clare support organisations for victims of sexual violence are calling on young people to examine the power dynamics in their relationships.
The topics of consent, abuse of power and grooming have been widely-discussed in recent days following the emergence of fresh allegations against UK comedian Russell Brand.
Channel 4’s CEO Alex Mahon has vowed to “forensically examine” any further information relating to allegations against the former television personality.
It comes one day after Scotland Yard confirmed it’s currently investigating an allegation of sexual assault against him dating back to 2003.
The high-profile investigation by the Times, the Sunday Times and Channel 4 Dispatches into Russell Brand’s treatment of women has yielded accusations of rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse over a seven-year period – all of which Brand has “absolutely” denied.
As investigations continue and accusations continue to mount up, the story has prompted much discussion around the role of power and influence in relationships.
Director of Rape Crisis Midwest Karen O’Donnell observes Brand’s alleged behaviour appears to have been enabled by the people around him.
Among the allegations against Brand is an accusation that he sexually assaulted a 16-year-old girl when he was 31 during their three-month relationship – an accusation which he has also denied.
The age of consent in the UK is 16 while it is 17 in Ireland but commentators have highlighted that these laws were introduced to enable young people who are close in age to have sex and not to enable relationships with large age gaps.
In light of the Brand investigation, Clare Haven Children and Young People Support Coordinator Deirdre Murray is encouraging young people to examine the “seesaw” of power within their relationships.
You can listen to the full interview below.
