Bernard Durkan
Question:
286. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice the extent to which women, children or other vulnerable persons continue to seek the help of an Garda Síochána in relation to matters such as trafficking, physical, sexual or mental abuse; the number of such cases where individuals have been removed from this jurisdiction; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51949/21]
View answer
I have requested a report from An Garda Síochána on the matters raised by the Deputy. I will contact the Deputy directly when the requested information is to hand
The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 51
I refer to Parliamentary Question No. 286 for answer on 21 October 2021, in which you requested information on the extent to which women, children or other vulnerable persons continue to seek the help of an Garda Síochána in relation to matters such as trafficking, physical, sexual or mental abuse; and the number of such cases where individuals have been removed from this jurisdiction.
I am informed that during 2020, some 38 victims of human trafficking were identified by An Garda Síochána, 33 adult females and five adult males. To the 1st of October 2021, 25 victims of human trafficking have been identified by An Garda Síochána, 14 adult females, 10 adult males and one female minor.
I am further informed that An Garda Síochána maintains contact with all victims of Human Trafficking where investigations are ongoing. The Human Trafficking Investigation and Co-ordination Unit (HTICU) at the Garda National Protective Services Bureau is not aware of any victim of human trafficking being trafficked from the jurisdiction. In addition, the HTICU can confirm that no victims of human trafficking offences have been deported from this jurisdiction.
Human trafficking is a heinous crime based on deception and exploitation of vulnerable people. This Government is serious about preventing and prosecuting for human trafficking – the victim centred policy approach that we are taking will encourage more victims to come forward which will in turn strengthen prosecutions and convictions.
Over the past year my Department has introduced significant measures to combat trafficking, to create a more victim-centred approach to identifying and supporting victims and to raise awareness and provide training, including:
- The approval by Government earlier this year to revise the National Referral Mechanism to make it easier for victims of trafficking to come forward, be identified and access advice, accommodation and support;
- The drafting of a new National Action Plan on Human Trafficking;
- The development of training, through NGOs, targeting front line staff in industries such as hospitality, airline and shipping who may come into contact with trafficked persons;
- The improvements being made to the Criminal Justice System to support victims through the implementation of Supporting a Victim's Journey;
- A new anti-trafficking public awareness campaign, in conjunction with the International Organisation for Migration, which continues through November;
- An increase in funding for supporting victims of crime generally and increased funding dedicated specifically to supporting victims of trafficking.
A specialised Garda Unit, the Human Trafficking Investigation and Co-ordination Unit (HTICU), has been in place since 2009 to conduct investigations into human trafficking. It also provides advice, support and where necessary, operational assistance to investigations at district level.
Earlier this year saw the first convictions for human trafficking handed down by the Courts. On 28 September significant sentences were handed down in Mullingar Circuit Criminal Court for these crimes.
I trust that this information is of use to you.
