Under existing rules, a victim’s counselling notes can be introduced as evidence in sexual assault trials.
The Justice Committee is recommending counsellor's notes from sexual violence survivors should be protected and confidential.
Currently, a victim's counsellor notes can be used as evidence in cases of sexual violence.
Mullingar's Hazel Behan, who was sexually assaulted in Portugal in 2004, spoke before the committee today.
She explains why she decided to come forward with her story:
Midlands Autism Group Calls For Action As 16,000 Children Await Assessments
The figure has grown since the first quarter of the year.
Westmeath Heritage Park Awarded Funding Under Rural Tourism Fund
Dún na Sí Amenity and Heritage Park is among 11 projects to receive supports.
Blooming Minds Circle Creates Community For Neurodivergent Children In Laois
Blooming Minds Circle formed last January.
Weather Warning Issued For 13 Counties
County's in Leinster are under warning from 11am tomorrow.
Midlands MEP Slams EU Commission Over Lack Of Support For Farmers
CAP reform will cut Pillar 2 funding for rural and agricultural projects.
Housing Committee To Hold Minister Accountable Over New Plan
''Delivering Homes, Building Communities" plan was announced this morning.
Laois Town Hit By Flooding
Concerns are mounting over possible damage due to this weekend's forecast.
Communities Invited to Apply for New Peatlands and Natura Grants
Closing date for submission of applications is 9th January 2026
Sinn Fein Party Member Expelled After Partner Arrested In Laois
Her partner, a man in his 30s remains in Garda custody in Laois.
HIQA Report Finds Midlands Care Centre Non Compliant In Several Areas
A HIQA report says Ferbane Care Centre breached regulations over unsanctioned layout changes.
ICSA Holding Protest Against Mercosur Trade Deal Today
ICSA President, Westmeath's Sean McNamara is calling for more Government action.
High Court Decision On Sending Enoch Burke To Prison Due Tuesday
The High Court is also considering further contempt proceedings against Mr Burke and his family.
Teen Dating Violence Awareness Seminar In Offaly Today
Offaly Domestic Violence Support Service are hosting the event.
Gardaí And PSNI Make Third Terrorism Related Arrest In Laois
A man in his 30s is being held following a cross border investigation.
Midlands Rents Surge As Property Shortage Deepens
A shortage of rental properties is driving the increase.
Six Week Health And Wellbeing Course For Farmers Launches In Westmeath
The event kicks off tonight in Castletown Geoghegan.
Buccaneers Rugby Raise Over €4.5k For Westmeath Hospice
Two coffee mornings were held by the club.
Laois County Council Approves 5% Rise In Commercial Rates For 2026
It'll be the first time financial contributions will rise in seven years.
Plans Submitted For 92 Home Development In Offaly
A decision is due in the new year.
€50k Available For Midlands Integration Projects
€3.6m is the overall funds for national organisations.
