A brave young Donegal woman who was repeatedly raped by her father has told other rape survivors that they are not alone.
Annie Lafferty, 25, waived her right to anonymity to ensure her father, Maurice Lafferty would be publicly named.
Maurice Lafferty, 50, of Corcullen, Castlefin, Donegal, was sentenced to 11 years in prison for the repeated rape of his daughter Annie Lafferty on dates between November 1, 2010 and June 30, 2011.
The ‘depraved’ acts took place up to three times a week at the family home, when Annie was 17 years old and when her mother was out working in Letterkenny.
Father of six Maurice Lafferty pleaded guilty to rape at the Central Criminal Court on Monday. Mr Justice Alex Owens sentenced him to 11 years in prison, adding that he couldn’t see a reason to suspend any part of the sentence.
Mr Justice Owens described Lafferty’s attacks on his daughter as ‘coercive’ and ‘depraved’.
Speaking outside the court, Annie spoke of her relief. “My voice has been heard. I’ve finally got my justice,” she told media.
Her message for other rape survivors was: “They are not on their own, they can get help. It’s never too late to reach out and there is always help there. There are Samaritans, there are counsellors, if you don’t feel comfortable to go to the Guards go straight to the counsellors so you are never forced to do anything. You can do it in your time.”
Support is available from:
Samaritans – Freephone: 116 123
Donegal Rape Crisis Centre – Freephone: 1800 44 88 44
