Sarah O'Reilly (Aontú)

I thank Senator Flynn and the Civil Engagement Group for their work on this issue. I agree with all the amendments and fully support their proposals. It is beyond time that our laws be updated so that images of child abuse are referred to as what they are.

We have a very serious problem of child trafficking and child sexual exploitation in this country. Aontú has exposed a number of alarming facts in recent weeks and some of these statistics are as follows: there are currently 37 children missing from Tusla's care, and 32 of them were refugees or seeking international protection in Ireland; since 2021, Tusla has made referrals to the Garda regarding 161 children who were suspected of being victims of child sexual exploitation, which is a form of child trafficking, with 115 of these children being in care and 46 "known to Tusla"; since 2014, a total of 235 children either in State care or known to Tusla have died, with ten murdered and 51 having died either by suicide or drug overdose; and Tusla has admitted to us that it accommodated 66 children in hotels over the past six months, which are unregulated placements with third party providers.

I call for a proper debate in this Chamber on child protection. I commend the group, MECPATHS, on its work to raise awareness about trafficking. Aontú has worked closely with MECPATHS and I know they also appreciate the proposal by Senator Flynn.

I ask the Government not to oppose this very basic but timely legislation.