Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for his response. He will be aware that one of the headline figures identified by the Immigrant Council of Ireland estimates that the sex industry in Ireland is worth approximately €180 million per annum. It is clear that there is a connection between brothel-keeping and criminal activity. The most recent report of the Independent Monitoring Commission, which was published on 7 May last, suggested that the Continuity IRA is involved in this industry. A crackdown on brothel-keeping and prostitution is taking place in other parts of Europe. Red light districts in the Netherlands are being reduced by one third because the authorities in that country have decided that their liberal policies are failing. New legislation that is being introduced in the UK will lead to a clampdown in that country. Unless we are prepared to tighten this country's laws, there could be a growth in this industry here. Does the Minister have any specific proposals for dealing with the threat that might result from the curtailment of these activities in other EU member states?

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