Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 258: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps which are being taken to ensure that Ireland ratifies the 2005 Council of Europe Convention on Action Against Trafficking in Human Beings; if it is proposed to introduce special protection for victims of trafficking that accord with the provisions of the convention; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6049/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The Council of Europe Convention on Action Against Trafficking in Human Beings is currently under consideration by my Department. Legislation which will criminalise trafficking in human beings for the purpose of their sexual and labour exploitation as provided for in the EU framework decision on combating trafficking in persons is at an advanced stage of preparation in my Department. This legislation will also take account of the Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings.

The issue of what, if any, additional protection is required for victims of trafficking, in accordance with the provisions of the convention, is also being examined in my Department.