NI Children's Commissioner backs no prosecutions for rapists under 16 - and dodges questions about rights of female victims
Stormont’s children’s commissioner has stood by his position that no child under 16 should be prosecuted for serious crimes like rape – and avoided questions about the right of young girls to have justice for serious sexual crimes.
It comes amid a national outcry over children being spared jail time for raping two girls.
The girls, then aged 15 and 14, were raped in separate incidents in Hampshire, in November 2024 and January 2025, by two 14-year-old boys. One of the girls described the court’s decision as like a “rock straight in my face”
Stormont is currently looking at Alliance proposals to raise the minimum age at which children can be prosecuted to 14 – but to have exemptions for serious offences like rape and murder.
Supporters of such a move argue it is in line with international best practice, citing United Nations policy. The change is opposed by the DUP, TUV and the UUP leader.
Jon Burrows says it would effectively legalise crimes such as cyberflashing, creating deepfake porn and other extreme misogyny in Northern Ireland’s schools.
The Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People (NICCY), Chris Quinn, has made clear his position that no child under the age of 16 should be prosecuted, under any circumstances. He says there must be a “robust response” when children cause “serious harm” – but doesn’t want ant perpetrators under 16 prosecuted.
The News Letter asked Mr Quinn why he would elevate the rights of male perpetrators over the rights of young female victims to obtain justice, and why he opposes exemptions for serious cases such as rape and murder.
In a statement, Mr Quinn said NICCY is established in law to safeguard and promote the rights and best interests of all children and young people.
“In fulfilling this statutory role, we advocate for the rights of all babies, children and young people, including those who have experienced harm.
“We are clear that when children cause serious harm there must be a robust response, and our thoughts are with victims in such deeply distressing cases. Our position is based on evidence that responses focused on early intervention, accountability and rehabilitation are more effective at reducing reoffending and preventing future victims”, he said.
The NICCY boss added: “We, collectively support that the minimum age of criminal responsibility must be raised, with no exceptions.”