The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre has renewed its call for victims of rape and sexual assault to be represented in court during criminal trials.
Chairperson, Breda Allen, said the true number of sexaul assaults was not known and that research carried out on behalf of the centre in 2002 indicated two thirds of its clients did not report sexual assaults.
The issue is one of a number being highlighted by the centre as it celebrates its 25th anniversary.
The Chief Executive Officer of the organisation, Irene Bergin, said there was a greater need for the service than ever before.
Visiting the centre today, Taoiseach Bertie Ahern paid tribute to its work, particularly volunteers who operate its 24-hour phone line.
