The first conviction for female genital mutilation (FGM) in the State is an illustration of the value of the Criminal Justice (Female Genital Mutilation Act) 2012. More immediate complications of FGM include severe pain, extensive bleeding, shock, genital tissue swelling and infection (including the risk of developing HIV). Based on 2016 data, an estimated 5,790 women and girls living in Ireland had undergone FGM. And as many as 1,632 girls living in Ireland are estimated to be at high risk. Violence against women and girls – and that’s what FGM is– cannot be tolerated.

Source: The Irish Times January 30, 2020 17:45 UTC