Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that they have conducted a number of operations to combat brothel keeping, prostitution and human trafficking. The Garda will continue to conduct such operations, in line with the intelligence available to it. A recent investigation by the Garda National Bureau of Criminal Investigation, in conjunction with a number of other police forces, resulted in the apprehension in another jurisdiction of individuals suspected of brothel-keeping in this country. The operation led to the seizure of a substantial volume of evidence. Cash and other property discovered during the operation will be the subject of a proceeds of crime application to the courts. Similar operations are being and will continue to be carried out. I emphasise that the criminal law relating to brothel keeping is strong. I am aware of concerns that people are being trafficked for the purposes of prostitution. The Criminal Law (Human Trafficking) Act 2008 has greatly strengthened the law in this area. A dedicated anti-human trafficking unit was established in my Department in February 2008 to ensure that the State's response to human trafficking is co-ordinated and comprehensive. In addition, the Garda has recently established a human trafficking investigation and co-ordination unit. My Department recently received the report of the Immigrant Council of Ireland, Globalisation, Sex Trafficking and Prostitution - The Experiences of Migrant Women in Ireland. The report is extensive in scope. I have asked the anti human trafficking unit to examine the report, its findings and its recommendations. When this examination is completed, I will consider what further action might be necessary arising from the report.

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