"Lack of awareness and responsibility" - 'Epstein Files' float in Mayo parade is condemned

The Mayo Rape Crisis Centre have issued a statement following the appearance of a controversial 'Epstein Files' float in St Patrick's Day parades in Ballinrobe and surrounding areas in south Mayo and north Galway.

Footage circulated on social media showed a trailer being pulled by a tractor with signs reading ‘Epstein Files’ and ‘Prince Andrew Goin To Jail’ along with a mattress and a cage. The float appeared at parades in Headford, Co Galway and Kilmaine, Shrule and Ballinrobe, Co Mayo.

A video shared online from the Ballinrobe parade showed a number of people on and around the trailer, including someone dressed as a girl running and screaming from another person while a male appeared to pinning another person down on a mattress.

The Mayo Rape Crisis have said they are deeply shocked and appalled by the inclusion of a float that appeared to depict sexual violence in the context of the Epstein case.

"The Board of Directors and staff of Mayo Rape Crisis Centre are deeply shocked and appalled by the inclusion of a float at a St. Patrick’s Day parade, that appeared to depict sexual violence in the context of the Epstein case. The simulation of sexual exploitation and abuse in a public celebration is wholly inappropriate and unacceptable."

"Sexual violence is a serious and pervasive issue that affects people across all communities. It is never appropriate to trivialise, sensationalise, or use it as a form of entertainment. The inclusion of such a display at a widely attended community event demonstrates a serious lack of awareness and responsibility, and it is important that this is acknowledged and addressed.

"Public events, particularly those that are family oriented and community led, carry a responsibility to ensure that content is safe, respectful, and does not cause harm. When that responsibility is not met, it can have real and lasting impacts; especially for survivors of sexual violence, who may experience distress, re-traumatisation, or a sense that their experiences are being minimised."

"We are especially conscious that this occurred within our own community in County Mayo. For anyone affected by what they saw, or for those who may have found it distressing or triggering, we want to emphasise that support is available."

Shauna Jackson, Director of Services at Mayo Rape Crisis Centre, said:

‘There must be accountability when something like this happens. Sexual violence is not a theme, a joke, or a spectacle; it is a lived reality for many people in our communities. Presenting it in this way reflects a serious failure to consider the impact on survivors. We would urge those responsible to reflect carefully on the harm caused and to take steps to ensure this does not happen again. Survivors deserve to feel safe and respected in public spaces’.

"Mayo Rape Crisis Centre provides a range of free and confidential supports, including professional counselling, advocacy services, court accompaniment, and support when engaging with An Garda Síochána. Our service is here for anyone impacted by sexual violence, at any stage in their journey."

"We also recognise that communities may wish to respond constructively following incidents like this. Mayo Rape Crisis Centre is available to work with local organisations, groups, and individuals who want to feel more informed and empowered. In particular, we offer Disclosure Training for workers or individuals who, in the course of their work or daily lives, may become recipients of a disclosure of sexual abuse or sexual violence. This training supports people to respond safely, appropriately, and with confidence."

"We would strongly encourage anyone affected by this incident, or by sexual violence at any time in their life, to reach out. You are not alone, and support is available."

Anyone affected can contact the Mayo Rape Crisis Centre Helpline on 1800 234 900, where they will be met with understanding, respect, and support.