27/01/2020

Couple Jailed For Over 10 Years In State First Conviction For FGM

A 37-year-old man and 27-year-old woman are the first people in Ireland to be jailed for the crime of female genital mutilation.

The pair, a married couple originally from Africa, have been sentenced to a total of more than 10 years for the genital mutilation of their then 21-month-old daughter. According to reports, the incident took place at an address in Dublin on the 16 September, 2016.

Speaking today after the 1st conviction and sentencing for the Offence of Female Genital Mutilation Detective Chief Superintendent Declan Daly, Garda National Protective Services Bureau said: "Today's conviction and sentence represents the first of its kind in Ireland. It sends a strong and important message that Female Genital Mutilation, the mutilation of children and young girls, is not and will not be tolerated. It is a heinous and barbaric practice which is a criminal offence in Ireland.

"Ireland has a long and proud history of embracing traditions and customs from abroad, however there can be no 'welcome' for any activity which brings harm to children.

"Our communities need to be vigilant and aware of this crime and anyone who suspects or believes a child is likely to be subject to Female Genital Mutilation either here or being brought outside the country for the purpose of Female Genital Mutilation, to contact their local Garda station, the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 or call the Child Abuse Reporting line on - 1800 555 222.

"Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is an offence contrary to the Criminal Justice (Female Genital Mutilation) Act 2012."

(MH/CM)

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