Irish politicians disavow ‘demeaning’ PSA warning grandparents not to hug family without asking consent

An ad from the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC) in Ireland, which suggested grandparents should ask for consent before hugging grandchildren, has been removed following international controversy and criticism from politicians. Irish Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan stated the ad was inappropriate and demeaning to grandparents and did not represent the government’s views. The DRCC confirmed the ad’s removal, stating they would reflect on its effectiveness.

• An ad by the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC) titled ‘We-Consent’ urged grandparents to ask for consent before hugging grandchildren.
• The ad sparked international controversy and was criticized by Irish politicians from multiple parties.
• Irish Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan announced the ad’s removal, stating it was inappropriate, demeaning, and did not represent government views.
• Irish Sen. Gareth Scahill criticized the use of public funds for the ‘ill-thought out’ and ‘offensive’ ad.
• The DRCC stated the ‘We-Consent’ campaign aims to increase awareness and practice of consent from an early age and will reflect on the video’s impact.