Dublin Rape Crisis Centre pulls consent advertisement following backlash

The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC) has removed a public service announcement from its ‘We-Consent’ campaign following significant criticism. The 25-second advertisement featured a young woman appearing uncomfortable when her grandparents attempted to hug her, accompanied by the message: ‘Not everyone wants a hug. Even from the people who love them.’

Irish Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan criticized the video, describing it as ‘inappropriate and demeaning to grandparents.’ He noted that while the DRCC’s national program aims to promote consent, this specific advertisement was counterproductive and did not advance its goals. O’Callaghan clarified that the video does not represent the views of the Irish government, despite the campaign receiving funding from the Department of Justice and the Department of Children, Disability, and Equality.

Mollie Lou Kelty, the 15-year-old actress featured in the clip, expressed shock at the decision to pull the ad. She defended the message, stating the intent was to raise awareness about respecting personal boundaries rather than showing disrespect toward grandparents.