Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 April 2011
294 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he has been briefed on a campaign (details supplied); if he is preparing a response; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7471/11]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the existing law the sale or purchase of sexual services is not an offence. However associated activities which cause a public nuisance such as soliciting by either party to a transaction or the exploitation of prostitution such as pimping or running a brothel are criminal offences.
I am aware of the "turn off the red light" campaign for legislation here, based on the law in Sweden, to criminalise the purchase of sex. Any such proposal would require very careful consideration.
I will be examining a report prepared by my Department on the Swedish Government's evaluation last year of its 1999 legislation. I will also be examining advices recently received from the Attorney General's Office concerning the legal and constitutional implications of introducing a ban on the purchase of sex. The Deputy will appreciate that I have not yet had the opportunity to fully consider the issues. The Deputy will appreciate that I have not yet had the opportunity to fully consider the report referred to and the advices received.
