The sentence handed down to Tom Humphries for the defilement of a child looks set to be appealed.
The former sports journalist was handed a two-and-a-half year jail term for the offence, to which he had pleaded guilty, but this has been criticised by survivors of sexual assaults, and those who represent them.
Meanwhile, the Clare County Board was last night told of how there had been consultations between the Clare senior hurling management and Donal Óg Cusack, prior to his decision to resign from his role as coach.
The Corkman had provided a character reference for Humphries.
Groups representing survivors of child abuse have described the sentence handed down to Tom Humphries yesterday as unduly lenient.
The former sports writer, who faced a maximum of five years in jail, has begun a two and a half year sentence, though the charge is expected to be appealed by the Director of Public Prosecutions.
The Judge has also come under fire for saying Mr Humphries’ guilty plea and loss of reputation were mitigating factors.
CEO of CARI, Mary Flaherty has described the judge’s comments as concerning.
While, a prominent rape survivor says there should be ‘no mitigating circumstances’ for sexual abuse.
Niamh Ni Domhnall’s ex partner was given a suspended sentence for raping her while she slept – she says there’s no justification for sex crimes.
Here, meanwhile, Donal Óg Cusack announced his decision to step down as a coach with the Clare senior hurlers last night after consulting with team management over the past two weeks.
The Corkman’s departure comes after he provided a character reference for Tom Humphries, who was yesterday sentenced for the defilement of a teenage girl who he had groomed.
Cusack, who’s autobiography was ghost-written by Humphries, had previously apologised, and admitted to showing a lack of judgement.
Last night, Clare County Board Chairman Joe Cooney was asked if it was disappointing that this had occured.
