Council urged to support initiative for victims of sexual harassment in public

Donegal County Council is being urged to play a leading role in a campaign aimed at helping victims of sexual harassment and assault in public places seek help.

The "Ask for Angela" campaign is a proven initiative and a codeword for help designed to help victims of sexual harassment and assault safely seek assistance in public venues.

Aontú’s Donegal Rep Mary T Sweeney, who is leading the call, says she is writing to Donegal County Council urging it to promote the initiative amongst the business community and give them full support if they decide to roll out the initiative.

She says: “Recent studies show that up to 30% of women Ireland experiences sexual harassment in public spaces. While specific figures for other vulnerable groups are less precisely documented, national studies suggest that experiences of harassment and assault are disproportionately higher among these groups, and I believe this points to the importance of accessible support options in our community.

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“As of now, there isn't a nationally published, precise percentage rise in reported incidents directly attributable to the "Ask for Angela" scheme across Ireland. However, anecdotal evidence and research indicates that campaigns like "Ask for Angela" have led to a significant increase in victim confidence to seek help, with some areas observing up to a 15-20% rise in reported incidents since their implementation. The campaign’s presence in local pubs, clubs, and community venues has been shown to reduce incidents of harassment and improve safety awareness”.

“While there are undoubtedly increased public safety initiatives, awareness within the community remains limited, and many victims may not yet know how to access help. A coordinated effort by our local authority would really help local vintners and businesses to fully promote and highlight an Ask for Angela campaign and would be a critical step forward”.

Donegal County Council could really lend its support through the allocation of resources to promote the initiative across all appropriate platforms, including social media, local press, and public posters in key venues”.

“There are a myriad of ways in which it could do this including partnering with local businesses, pubs, clubs, and community groups to facilitate training and awareness around the campaign, as well as organising community events or information sessions aimed at educating the public on how "Ask for Angela" works and its benefits,” MsSweeney added.

“Supporting and promoting the "Ask for Angela" campaign publicly demonstrates its commitment to community safety and the well-being of all residents. I am urging the local authority to help make our area a safer place for everyone by ensuring this vital initiative receives the attention and backing it deserves. This is a vital campaign and one that has the potential to literally save lives”.