#88 Mary Crilly of the Sexual Violence Centre in Cork talks about her life, work and sexual violence in Ireland

#88 Mary Crilly of the Sexual Violence Centre in Cork talks about her life, work and sexual violence in Ireland

Ever wondered about the real-life heroes working behind the scenes to combat sexual violence? In this episode of 'The Two Norries', James Leonard and Timmy Long sit down with Mary Crilly, the powerhouse behind the Sexual Violence Centre in Cork City. Mary opens up about her journey from her early days to becoming a leading advocate for survivors of sexual violence in Ireland.

She recounts the uphill battle of establishing the Centre in the 1980s, a time when support for victims was scarce and societal awareness was minimal. But Mary’s story is not just about the past; it's a call to action for the present and future. She dives into the profound impact of sexual trauma on the body, discussing how chronic pain and illness often haunt survivors.

Through her work, Mary emphasizes the importance of consent education and teaching young people about healthy boundaries and respect. The conversation also tackles the shortcomings of the Irish court system in handling sexual assault cases, highlighting the urgent need for reforms to better support survivors and hold perpetrators accountable. Human trafficking, another grave issue, finds its way into the discussion as Mary underscores the vulnerability of trafficked individuals and calls for greater awareness and support.

The episode also touches on recent tragic events, such as the murder of Aisling Murphy, and explores how men can play a crucial role in preventing sexual violence and supporting survivors. Mary's candid insights and unwavering dedication offer a powerful perspective on the ongoing fight against sexual violence. This episode is a must-listen for anyone wanting to understand the complexities of this issue and the incredible efforts being made to address it.