Victims' rights campaign made its Irish debut at Waterford's All Together Now festival

A European Commission campaign raising awareness for victim rights launched it's Irish campaign this past weekend in Waterford at the All Together Now festival at the Curraghmore Estate.

The Keep Your Eyes Open campaign stall had 2,197 visitors over the weekend, with almost 900 festivalgoers taking part in their Eyes Open Challenge, helping to raise awareness of victims' rights and the supports available to them.

The campaign was launched in Ireland after a recent study by the European Commission found that over 40% of 18-30 year olds in Ireland are unaware or unsure that victims of crime are protected in the EU through specific rights.

Public figures like Dr. Mamobo Ogoro and James Kavanagh participated in the challenge at the festival, by staring into the eyes of a member of the public, encouraging them to keep their eyes open.

On the campaign's' Irish debut, former Cork TD and current EU Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection, Michael McGrath said, "The ‘Keep Your Eyes Open’ campaign seeks to raise awareness of victims’ rights and encourage citizens to build a supportive community around those affected."

"Ultimately, staying alert and fostering awareness are important steps toward strengthening protection, support, and justice for all victims.” 

The Keep Your Eyes Open campaign aims to create an environment where victims of crime feel safe, understood, and supported.

The campaign therefore aims not only to raise awareness about the rights of victims, but also to provide a list of dedicated organisations that victims can reach out to for support.

All information about crimes, victims' rights and support organisations in Ireland are available on https://victims-rights.campaign.europa.eu/en/country/ireland#action