First time callers to the National Rape Crisis helpline increased by almost 50% during the Nikita Hand civil case against Conor McGregor.

The helpline said they heard from people who have seen a negative 'victim-blaming' attitude over the duration of the trial which lasted 2 weeks.

CEO of The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre Rachel Morrogh has said the progress made in the area of sexual violence is fragile.

“The trial has also revealed a level of hostility and some ugly commentary that really I think we need to reflect on and perhaps consider that the progress that we've made in the area of sexual violence might be quite fragile,” she said.

“We need to make sure that any victim shaming or blame put on the victim, that we get rid of that, and that we ensure that all the shame and all the blame is with the perpetrator.”

Yesterday a court decided that the Mr McGregor was guilty of assaulting Ms Hand in a Dublin hotel in 2018.

If you have been impacted by rape or sexual assault you can contact the Rape Crisis Centre 24-Hour National Helpline on 1800 77 8888.