Rape crisis charities have condemned a St Patrick’s Day float that mimicked a sexual assault and featured signs saying “Epstein files”. Rape Crisis Ireland called the display “an act of public grooming” that normalised sexual violence, while politicians labelled it a disgrace. Clíona Saidléar, the executive director of Rape Crisis Ireland, said it was shocking that anybody would re-enact incidents of sexual violence against women as entertainment. “The float is further evidence of a lack of awareness of the impact of sexual violence and of the harm and trauma it causes,” said its chief executive, Rachel Morrogh. The Ballinrobe St Patrick’s Day parade committee said the float did not reflect its values.

Source: Irish Examiner March 19, 2026 20:20 UTC