Martin Conway (Fine Gael)

I wish to express my shock and disturbance at the facts revealed last night in the "Prime Time" programme. The underworld is a dark and seedy place. A 16 year old girl in this city lost her life last night as a result of thuggery. Like others, I wish to express my sympathy to the family. Will the Leader facilitate a visit to the House by the Minister, Deputy Shatter, at some stage in the near future to have a further discussion on prostitution in this country? What legislation is pending? What public consultation process will the Minister engage in? How will the process be conducted? How widespread and comprehensive will it be? Ultimately, what sanctions does the Minister propose in terms of criminalising the males who use prostitutes? It is a hideous business. I understand that from 2,000 to 3,000 women in this country are being exploited on a daily basis through prostitution. This is a most regrettable part of our culture and the issue must be tackled by Government. I am aware the Government has committed to dealing with the matter soon within a short period and I request the Leader to push the issue up the agenda of this House. We led the way already with a debate proposed through Private Members' time by the Independent group. Let us keep the pressure on.