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Legislative Reviews

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 June 2020

Wednesday, 3 June 2020

Ceisteanna (339, 340)

Roderic O'Gorman

Ceist:

339. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the terms of reference of the review of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2017 which is required under section 27 of the Act; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8477/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Roderic O'Gorman

Ceist:

340. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if the terms of reference of the review of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2017 will seek to include the participation of persons engaged in prostitution and of persons who have been victims of human trafficking; if it will review the risks the operation of the Act poses for the safety and well-being of persons engaged in sex work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8478/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I propose to take Questions Nos. 339 and 340 together.

As the Deputy will be aware, Part 4 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2017 is due to be reviewed this year. This review arises under the provisions of the Act itself, and will include an assessment of the impact of the Act on the welfare of those who engage in sexual activity for payment.

The terms of reference for the review have been finalised and I expect to be able to publish those terms of reference in the coming days.

The review will be conducted in an open and consultative manner and will take a broad approach to ensure consideration of the full range of issues raised in relation to the purchase of sex, can be examined in the context of the review. In relation to the Deputy’s specific question, I can confirm that it is intended that the review will seek to include the views of those who are engaged in prostitution and those who have been victims of human trafficking as well as, inter alia, seeking to assess the impact of the Act’s operation on the safety and well-being of persons who engage in sexual activity for payment.

As the Deputy will be aware, the goal of the legislation is to protect vulnerable persons. In this context the review will include consideration of whether further measures are needed to strengthen protection for persons who engage in sexual activity for payment.

As the Deputy will appreciate, the approach to be adopted for the review, including the means for consultation with stakeholders, will need to take account of the current context of the Covid-19 pandemic. The details and logistics of the approach to be adopted are being finalised and will be announced as soon as possible.

Finally, I can confirm that the report will be published by my Department when complete.

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