Human trafficking is a major concern to Deputies. The Garda Síochána has identified it as one of its priorities in its annual policing plan. The Garda has made some moves to address the problem by establishing a human trafficking investigation and co-ordination unit in the Garda National Immigration Bureau. The proposal to extend the Civil Legal Aid Act to victims of human trafficking is a step in the right direction. While recognising that, in an ideal world one would like to see more substantive provisions beyond providing legal advice and to extend it to cover the issue of legal representation. The Immigration Council of Ireland and FLAC have expressed this as well. However, in the context of the debate in the Committee this morning, I am also a realist. The Legal Aid Board is stretched to its limits and given the current economic situation, that is not surprising. While resources are stretched and budgets are being cut, it is important that we continually review this matter. The Minister suggested bringing forward more comprehensive legislation. When we come to do that, I ask him to consider legal representation for these people.

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