DRCC removes grandparents consent video after criticism

The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre removed a video about children’s consent and grandparents hugging after criticism and engagement with Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan, who called it inappropriate and demeaning to grandparents. The clip, part of the centre’s WeConsent campaign, showed grandparents arriving at a home. A boy greeted them with a hug, while his sister appeared uncomfortable when they approached her. The video’s message said not everyone wants a hug, even from people who love them, and described respecting that preference as important. The DRCC also removed two other videos in the series from its social media channels. The centre said it would review whether the videos were having the positive effect intended. It said the series was based on the principle that boundaries should be respected from an early age. O’Callaghan said his officials engaged with the DRCC before the video was taken down. He said it did not represent the Government’s views and argued that it did not advance understanding of consent, including in sexual relationships. Health Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill also said the video was inappropriate and that no one in government had viewed or...