In Ireland, a public information video has been released advising grandparents that they should ask for permission before hugging their grandchildren. The video, produced by the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre, shows one grandchild who is comfortable with a hug – and another who is not. According to the voiceover, not everyone wants a hug:
– Even from those who love them. Uncomfortable? Perhaps. Important? Absolutely.
The campaign, which is supported by the Department of Justice, has, after facing strong opposition, been described by Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan as ‘inappropriate and demeaning to grandparents’, and as ‘not representing the government’s view’. He has concluded that loving grandparents are a positive part of children’s lives, and this should be valued – not the subject of a campaign. The video was subsequently removed, but has been made ‘immortal’ online.
– Sexualises family relationships
Several politicians from various parties have criticised the video for sexualising innocent family relationships and for casting doubt on normal, loving relationships: consent, which is important in sexual contexts, is taken so far that it undermines ordinary family ties.
In Ireland, it’s important to get permission before hugging your grandchildren. Preferably from a state official. pic.twitter.com/JsGZ8khzKh
— Damian (@raggedlines) 22 October 2026
Irish institutions and organisations have increasingly embraced extremely ‘woke’ ideas, whereby consent, identity and ‘respect’ are being applied to ever-new areas where it it has ‘always’ been taken for granted that common sense prevailed.
However, Irene is not alone. In Glasgow, the Kelvingrove Art Gallery has removed Egyptian mummies from its exhibition, citing a “lack of consent from the deceased or their descendants”.
🚨NEWS: THIS MIGHT BE THE WOKEST THING I’VE EVER HEARD
Glasgow Life has REMOVED the Egyptian mummies on display at Kelvingrove Art Gallery because the deceased mummies DID NOT CONSENT to being on display
I wish I was joking
Absolutely true pic.twitter.com/yAiKWCIAMt— Basil the Great (@BasilTheGreat) 22 October 2026
