Alex's Answer

Hi there, and thank you for contacting Ask Alex.

 

You ask what happens if a 17-year-old gets a 16-year-old pregnant.

 

In Ireland, the legal age to give consent, or willingly agree to having sexual intercourse, is 17. However, Irish law also states that if there is an age difference of two years or less (for example, a 15-year-old and a 17-year-old), the younger person can consent to this activity. In this situation, consent must also have been given freely and voluntarily; no one can have felt pressured or intimidated, and neither person can be in a position of authority.

 

The law is not there to criminalise young people but to protect them from abuse and exploitation. Ultimately, it is up to the court to decide if the act was consensual, even if these conditions were met, should a case be taken against one or other partner.

 

For more information, you can visit:

If you ever need to talk about anything, and don’t know who to go to, know that Childline is here for you. We will listen and support you whenever you need us. You can call us at 1800 66 66 66 or use Messenger on our website www.childline.ie. We are here 24 hours a day, every single day. You can call or message us anonymously for confidential, non-judgmental support.

 

Thank you, take care of yourself,

Alex