Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

However, the Deputy appears to have greater insight into the area of prostitution than the conflict that took place on this island for 30 years.

In respect of the Deputy's question on this area, no policy decisions have been taken in this matter as yet. The Deputy will be aware the joint committee published its report on hearings and submissions on the review of prostitution legislation on 27 June last. I have requested the views of the Attorney General and the Minister for Health on the report. I have also corresponded with the committee since it published its report to seek clarification and elaboration of some of its recommendations. The Chairman's reply of 6 November provided very detailed and helpful responses and this has also been referred to the Attorney General and the Minister for Health for examination. Policy decisions by the Government must await their examination of the legal and health implications of the committee's recommendations and each must have the opportunity to prepare considered views and advices.

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