Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

A report from the Council of Europe on the issue of trafficking looks at Ireland's implementation of the Council of Europe's 2005 anti-trafficking convention. Some 57 possible victims of trafficking were reported to An Garda Síochána in 2011, some 78 in 2010 and 66 in 2009. Only 40 of the 47 countries of the Council of Europe have signed up to the convention. Ireland has a proud record in this regard, because the legislation we introduced is the strongest in Europe. During our Presidency, the Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Shatter, introduced a proposal for victim support which has been adopted by the countries of the European Union and a directive is awaited. If the Acting Leader agrees, it would be worthwhile if the Minister got the opportunity to outline the progress Ireland has made.

In a detailed response to the report, the Department of Justice and Equality stated that Ireland was pleased to note that GRETA, the group of experts on action against trafficking, commends the important steps taken by Ireland to develop the legal institutional framework for action. In regard to the granting of a period of recovery and reflection for victims, it said Ireland's arrangements are in accordance with the provision of Article 13 of the convention. The report was compiled following a five-day visit to Ireland by GRETA.

This is a serious issue and must be tackled on a global basis. It would be worthwhile if the Acting Leader could arrange for the Minister to come to the House some time in the next few weeks. He should have the opportunity to study the report and to outline what has been achieved by the current and previous Governments in this regard. Trafficking is an insidious crime, mainly against women and children, which is linked to the issue of prostitution. TV3 carried out an intensive report into the issue at one stage. I believe Ireland has a proud record on this issue, but I do not think the Council of Europe is aware of the work Ireland did within the European Union during its Presidency. I wish to second the amendment raised on this matter.