Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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101. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the extent to which the safety and well-being of undocumented immigrants here receives adequate attention with particular reference to the needs of those who may have received threats or are in danger of being trafficked; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7996/17]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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The Government recognises that Human Trafficking is a hidden crime, and that undocumented migrants who might also be potential victims of trafficking may be reluctant to make themselves known to authorities. In recognition of this, and in making determinations as to whether a person is a suspected victim of human trafficking, An Garda Síochana takes into account any information provided by NGOs in relation to their engagement with these persons. In circumstances in which persons have no legal basis to remain in the State, the Administrative Immigration Arrangements for the Protection of Victims of Trafficking provide for the granting of a 60 day recovery and reflection period. This may be followed by a 6-month renewable temporary residence permission, where the trafficked person wishes to assist An Garda Síochána or other relevant authorities in any investigation or prosecution in relation to the alleged trafficking. As part of Ireland's victim-centred approach, suspected victims of human trafficking are provided with accommodation (where necessary), medical care and planning, psychological assistance, material assistance, legal aid and advice, security advice, vocational training and education.

As always, I would urge all victims of crime, including persons who believe that they may be victims of human trafficking, to report the matter to An Garda Síochána. Any suspicion of human trafficking that is reported to An Garda Síochána is the subject of a comprehensive investigation. In terms of legislation, the Criminal Law (Human Trafficking) Act 2008, with penalties of up to life imprisonment for human trafficking, greatly strengthened the law in this area and this legislation was further bolstered in 2013 with new forms of exploitation, namely forced begging and forced criminal activities, being provided for in law.

Measures have been taken to ensure that the Irish border is secure and that the opportunities which may arise at the point of entry to identify victims and their traffickers are taken. These measures include ongoing training for immigration officers at border control points and increasing use of new technology. Training in relation to human trafficking has also been provided for staff at reception centres where asylum seekers are housed.

Ireland's approach to the issue of Human Trafficking is further set out in the Second National Action Plan to Prevent and Combat Human Trafficking in Ireland which was published in October 2016.

In relation to the broader question of the undocumented I have no plans to introduce a general regularisation scheme. However, as I have stated previously it is always open to such persons to present their case on its individual merits to the immigration authorities. Such cases would be carefully considered before a decision is made and it is reasonable for the State to expect that the affected persons would respect that decision.