Derek Keating (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for his comprehensive reply which he did not get the chance to conclude. The inspiration behind the question is that often as I sit at home late at night awaiting what for me and many others is a very challenging political programme, I see young scantily dressed girls on TV3 encouraging and inviting people to participate with them by way of a call centre. I make no bones about it, given my information, that I believe this is a cover for prostitution. From the information available, prostitution is rife in the country and a service is readily available in every city, town and village. It is inextricably linked with sex trafficking, with which we have a serious problem. One can only imagine the horror in people's lives and those of their families for those embroiled in sex slavery and sex trafficking.

The matter cannot be discussed without considering the knock-on effects. The Garda in Clondalkin is seeking help following an attack on a young girl in my constituency. The Minister is well aware of the situation and I fully support him. I do not accept for one moment that what I see on TV3 every night is not a sexual entertainment service. I accept that ComReg is the relevant authority in the matter and that it is competent in achieving compliance with the legislation. However, we are the legislative authority and could perhaps be of assistance were we to empower ComReg by providing new or additional legislation that would be helpful in dealing with this serious matter, about which I feel most uncomfortable.

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