Consent

In Ireland, the legal framework surrounding sexual consent is guided by the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2017. Here are some key points regarding sexual consent under Irish law:

Age of Consent: The age of consent in Ireland is 17 years old. It means that individuals must be at least 17 years old to legally engage in sexual activity. Sexual activity with a person below the age of consent is considered a criminal offense.

Definition of Consent: Consent is defined as a voluntary agreement by a person to engage in a specific sexual act. It must be given by a person who has the capacity to give consent and be freely and willingly provided without any form of coercion, threat, or deception.

Capacity to Give Consent: The law recognizes that a person may not have the capacity to give consent due to factors such as intoxication, impairment, or mental incapacity. If a person is unable to understand the nature or consequences of the sexual act, consent cannot be given.

Communication of Consent: The law emphasizes the importance of clear communication of consent. It states that consent can be communicated through words or non-verbal actions as long as it is unmistakably given. However, silence or lack of resistance does not imply consent.

Withdrawal of Consent: Consent can be withdrawn at any point during sexual activity. If a person withdraws consent, all sexual activity must stop immediately. Failure to respect the withdrawal of consent can lead to criminal charges.

Sound

Start

before

Whether you're a nightlife aficionado or just looking to have a good time, we're here to give you the right information on how to make the most of your evenings while prioritising your well-being. We've got practical advice and handy tips on what you can do before stepping out, so you can relax and enjoy yourself without any unnecessary worries. So, take charge of your nightlife experience and enjoy your time while staying safe.

before

General Tips


STAY CONNECTED: Keep your phone charged an ensure there is credit on it before heading out. Stay in contact with someone you trust and share your contact number with friends that you are going out with. Let someone know your plans and check in periodically.


PLAN YOUR WAY HOME: Before you go on a night out have a plan in place. Research taxi numbers and have them on your phone. You can book a collection time before you go. Or have someone you know pick you up at a certain time.


BE PREPARED: Carry a rape whistle. Be assertive and say NO to any unwanted attention. Walk away and find help.


RECOGNIZE THE SIGNS OF OVERCONSUMPTION: Make sure you know the signs of alcohol poisoning and know when to seek help if you or someone you are with is in distress.



KNOW LOCAL RESOURCES: Know the location of local hospitals, police stations, and how to contact emergency services in case of an emergency.



BUY STOP TOPPS: StopTopps are versatile drink-protectors that have been designed to deter drink-spiking. They are single-use foils that can be put over a drink, and are suitable for any drinking vessel including cans, bottles and glasses.

SET A LIMIT: Decide on the maximum number of drinks you will have during pre- drinking and stick to it. Avoid peer pressure to drink more than you are comfortable with.


CHOOSE LOW-ALCOHOL OPTIONS: Opt for drinks with lower alcohol content, such as light beer or mixed drinks with less alcohol. Avoid high-proof spirits or shots. You can also order half pints to reduce your alcohol intake.


STAY HYDRATED: Alternate between alcoholic drinks and non-alcoholic beverages (water) to stay hydrated and pace yourself.


EAT A MEAL: Consume a balanced meal before drinking. Food can slow down the absorption of alcohol and help prevent intoxication.


DON’T DRINK ON AN EMPTY STOMACH: Avoid pre-drinking when you’re hungry or dehydrated. This can make alcohol affect you more quickly.


USE MEASURING DEVICES: If you are mixing your own drinks, use standard measures to ensure you are aware of how much alcohol you are consuming.

Pre Drinking

before

Drug Driving

There is no definitive number of drinks that will keep a person under the limit, as it varies from person to person.  If you are going to drive, don't drink. And it is important to remember that many drink-driving convictions take place the morning, or day after heavy drinking the previous night, so don't overdo it if you've got plans the next day.

Gardai can now conduct preliminary drug tests at the roadside or in Garda stations.

Drug-testing devices check a driver’s saliva for traces of cannabis, cocaine, opiates (heroin and morphine, among others) and benzodiazepines (Valium, for instance). 

If you are caught driving under the influence of drugs and you are impaired to such an extent that you don’t have proper control of the vehicle, the MINIMUM disqualification on a first offence is four years and it rises to six years for any subsequent transgression.

For cannabis, cocaine and heroin, it is illegal to drive, even if your driving is not impaired, and in these instances, there is a ban of at least one year for your first offence and two years for every offence thereafter. 

Consent and Intoxication: If a person is intoxicated, their ability to give informed consent may be impaired. Engaging in sexual activity with a person who is incapable of giving consent due to intoxication can be considered a criminal offense.

UNDERSTAND THE CONSEQUENCES: Make sure you understand the potential legal consequences of underage drinking, public intoxication, or any other unlawful behaviour.


BLOOD ALCOHOL LIMITS: Ireland has blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits for drivers. The legal BAC limit for fully licensed drivers is 50mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood. For learner drivers and professional drivers, the limit is 20mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood.


LEGAL DRINKING AGE: The legal drinking age in Ireland is 18. It is illegal for individuals under the age of 18 to purchase or consume alcohol in public places.

OFFENCES: There are various offences related to alcohol, such as underage drinking, public drunkenness, and driving under the influence (DUI). Penalties for these offences can include fines, license suspension, or imprisonment.



SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: There is an emphasis on promoting responsible drinking and reducing alcohol-related harm. The Public Health (Alcohol) Act 2018 includes provisions aimed at increasing awareness of the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption.



POSSESSION: Possession of a controlled drug without a vail prescription is illegal. Penalties for possession can vary depending on the drug’s severity and the quantity in possession. For more information on drug offences have a look at citizensinformation.ie



DRUG Trafficking is a serious offence: Drug trafficking, distribution, or possession with intent to supply is subject to significant penalties, including imprisonment.

Know The Law

before

soundOUT

THE CAMPAIGN

A professional opinion to a safer night out.

Essential steps to ensure safety and enjoyment before you hit the town.

Start Sound

before

DURING

Proactive steps for a safe and enjoyable nightlife experience.

Be Sound

AFTER

Caring for yourself and wrapping up safely after a fun night out.

Stay Sound

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© 2024 Sound Out Campaign

soundOUT

Stay switched on for a sound night out.

Consent

In Ireland, the legal framework surrounding sexual consent is guided by the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2017. Here are some key points regarding sexual consent under Irish law:

Age of Consent: The age of consent in Ireland is 17 years old. It means that individuals must be at least 17 years old to legally engage in sexual activity. Sexual activity with a person below the age of consent is considered a criminal offense.

Definition of Consent: Consent is defined as a voluntary agreement by a person to engage in a specific sexual act. It must be given by a person who has the capacity to give consent and be freely and willingly provided without any form of coercion, threat, or deception.

Capacity to Give Consent: The law recognizes that a person may not have the capacity to give consent due to factors such as intoxication, impairment, or mental incapacity. If a person is unable to understand the nature or consequences of the sexual act, consent cannot be given.

Communication of Consent: The law emphasizes the importance of clear communication of consent. It states that consent can be communicated through words or non-verbal actions as long as it is unmistakably given. However, silence or lack of resistance does not imply consent.

Withdrawal of Consent: Consent can be withdrawn at any point during sexual activity. If a person withdraws consent, all sexual activity must stop immediately. Failure to respect the withdrawal of consent can lead to criminal charges.

Consent and Intoxication: If a person is intoxicated, their ability to give informed consent may be impaired. Engaging in sexual activity with a person who is incapable of giving consent due to intoxication can be considered a criminal offense.

Sound

Start

before

Whether you're a nightlife aficionado or just looking to have a good time, we're here to give you the right information on how to make the most of your evenings while prioritising your well-being. We've got practical advice and handy tips on what you can do before stepping out, so you can relax and enjoy yourself without any unnecessary worries. So, take charge of your nightlife experience and enjoy your time while staying safe.

before

General Tips

STAY CONNECTED: Keep your phone charged an ensure there is credit on it before heading out. Stay in contact with someone you trust and share your contact number with friends that you are going out with. Let someone know your plans and check in periodically.


PLAN YOUR WAY HOME: Before you go on a night out have a plan in place. Research taxi numbers and have them on your phone. You can book a collection time before you go. Or have someone you know pick you up at a certain time.


BE PREPARED: Carry a rape whistle. Be assertive and say NO to any unwanted attention. Walk away and find help.


RECOGNISE THE SIGNS OF OVERCONSUMPTION: Make sure you know the signs of alcohol poisoning and know when to seek help if you or someone you are with is in distress.



KNOW LOCAL RESOURCES: Know the location of local hospitals, police stations, and how to contact emergency services in case of an emergency.



BUY STOP TOPPS: StopTopps are versatile drink-protectors that have been designed to deter drink-spiking. They are single-use foils that can be put over a drink, and are suitable for any drinking vessel including cans, bottles and glasses.

SET A LIMIT: Decide on the maximum number of drinks you will have during pre- drinking and stick to it. Avoid peer pressure to drink more than you are comfortable with.


CHOOSE LOW-ALCOHOL OPTIONS: Opt for drinks with lower alcohol content, such as light beer or mixed drinks with less alcohol. Avoid high-proof spirits or shots. You can also order half pints to reduce your alcohol intake.


STAY HYDRATED: Alternate between alcoholic drinks and non-alcoholic beverages (water) to stay hydrated and pace yourself.


EAT A MEAL: Consume a balanced meal before drinking. Food can slow down the absorption of alcohol and help prevent intoxication.


DON’T DRINK ON AN EMPTY STOMACH: Avoid pre-drinking when you’re hungry or dehydrated. This can make alcohol affect you more quickly.


USE MEASURING DEVICES: If you are mixing your own drinks, use standard measures to ensure you are aware of how much alcohol you are consuming.

Pre Drinking

before

Drug Driving

There is no definitive number of drinks that will keep a person under the limit, as it varies from person to person.  If you are going to drive, don't drink. And it is important to remember that many drink-driving convictions take place the morning, or day after heavy drinking the previous night, so don't overdo it if you've got plans the next day.

Gardai can now conduct preliminary drug tests at the roadside or in Garda stations.

Drug-testing devices check a driver’s saliva for traces of cannabis, cocaine, opiates (heroin and morphine, among others) and benzodiazepines (Valium, for instance). 

If you are caught driving under the influence of drugs and you are impaired to such an extent that you don’t have proper control of the vehicle, the MINIMUM disqualification on a first offence is four years and it rises to six years for any subsequent transgression.

For cannabis, cocaine and heroin, it is illegal to drive, even if your driving is not impaired, and in these instances, there is a ban of at least one year for your first offence and two years for every offence thereafter. 

UNDERSTAND THE CONSEQUENCES: Make sure you understand the potential legal consequences of underage drinking, public intoxication, or any other unlawful behaviour.


BLOOD ALCOHOL LIMITS: Ireland has blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits for drivers. The legal BAC limit for fully licensed drivers is 50mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood. For learner drivers and professional drivers, the limit is 20mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood.


LEGAL DRINKING AGE: The legal drinking age in Ireland is 18. It is illegal for individuals under the age of 18 to purchase or consume alcohol in public places.

OFFENCES: There are various offences related to alcohol, such as underage drinking, public drunkenness, and driving under the influence (DUI). Penalties for these offences can include fines, license suspension, or imprisonment.



SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: There is an emphasis on promoting responsible drinking and reducing alcohol-related harm. The Public Health (Alcohol) Act 2018 includes provisions aimed at increasing awareness of the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption.



POSSESSION: Possession of a controlled drug without a vail prescription is illegal. Penalties for possession can vary depending on the drug’s severity and the quantity in possession. For more information on drug offences have a look at citizensinformation.ie



DRUG Trafficking is a serious offence: Drug trafficking, distribution, or possession with intent to supply is subject to significant penalties, including imprisonment.

Know The Law

before

soundOUT

THE CAMPAIGN

A professional opinion to a safer night out.

Essential steps to ensure safety and enjoyment before you hit the town.

Start Sound

before

DURING

Proactive steps for a safe and enjoyable nightlife experience.

Be Sound

AFTER

Caring for yourself and wrapping up safely after a fun night out.

Stay Sound

Social

Instagram

Facebook

Navigations

Information

Events

Social

Instagram

Facebook

Wexford, Ireland

Privacy Policy

Terms & Conditions

© 2024 Sound Out Campaign

soundOUT

Stay switched on for a sound night out.