Eamon Gilmore
Ceist:268. Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if she will provide an update on measures to address the purchase of sex; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43857/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 18 November 2014
Ceisteanna (268, 279)
Michael McCarthy
Ceist:279. Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when she will introduce laws targeting sex buyers in line with the recommendations of the Joint Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43909/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 268 and 279 together.
As the Deputies are aware, there is an ongoing debate as to the approach to be adopted in tackling the exploitation associated with prostitution which includes the recommendations of the Joint Committee on Justice Defence and Equality following its review of legislation on prostitution. There are a wide range of issues involved which require consideration and any proposals will be brought to Government in the usual way.
Our criminal law already contains a number of provisions directed at the public nuisances and exploitation associated with prostitution. Solicitation, by both the client and the prostitute, living on the earnings of prostitution, organising prostitution and running a brothel are all offences under the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 1993.