Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputies have raised a number of constructive points that I would be happy to pursue as being applicable. I assure the House that An Garda Síochána continues to engage actively with the Director of Public Prosecutions in order to pursue further prosecutions this year. Having regard to the international dimension of the crime, we have developed strong links between the Garda and other European police services. Interpol and Europol channels are regularly used for these investigations.

I again point to the Second National Action Plan to Prevent and Combat Human Trafficking, which was launched three years ago. In this regard there are six priority areas, and if the Deputies have other elements they would like us to add, we are happy to consider them. The six priorities are currently prevention, training, awareness raising and evaluation, the reduction of vulnerability, the collection of data, demand reduction and enhanced co-ordination and co-operation. Action continues on a whole-of-government basis in line with that plan. Again, Ireland remains active on the international stage. From a domestic perspective a number of State bodies provide care and practical support to victims, including the Health Service Executive, the Legal Aid Board, the immigration service and Tusla in respect of child and family matters. My Department also provides funding to several non-governmental organisations for their work in providing support to victims of trafficking. I acknowledge on one hand the support for victims and on the other hand the robust criminal justice response.

These are complex matters but I assure Deputies Breathnach and O'Callaghan that the Government remains committed to tackling such matters through all available means.

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