Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I would be very happy to explore the issues raised by Senator Bacik in the context of ensuring the House is fully informed of developments and can continue to offer help, assistance, support and influence over the process. The exact nature of the report mandated under the new Act has not yet been decided. Information provided by the women's health service of the HSE and by organisations such as Ruhama and An Garda Síochána will form part of the report. These organisations work together towards the protection and welfare of those engaged in prostitution and the investigation of criminality where it arises. Officials from my Department have been engaged in discussions with these and other organisations as part of a civil society-led working group to support the implementation of the Act. In this regard, I acknowledge the support and active engagement of Senator Bacik and others, which I very much welcome.

I would be happy to subject myself to questioning and regular reviewing of how matters are progressing. Within An Garda Síochána, the Garda national protective services bureau plays a very important and lead role in the provision of operational guidelines on the policing of prostitution and brothels. Within the bureau, Operation Quest is a national unit primarily involved in investigations targeting organised prostitution and habitual brothel-keeping right across the country. A major part of the work undertaken as part of Operation Quest is the raising of awareness among those engaged in sex work of the services available to them in terms of their welfare, support and health, including support to exit prostitution.

I thank Senator Bacik for raising the issue. If there are any specific aspects of the matter she would like me to pursue, I would be happy to do so.