Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 25 January 2023
152. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Justice the number of referrals added to the national referral mechanism in this jurisdiction in the context of human trafficking in the years 2019 to 2022, and to date in 2023. [3726/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraHuman trafficking is an exploitive crime that preys on the vulnerable. I have been clear that there is no place for it in our society.
We know vulnerable people are trafficked into Ireland for exploitation reasons, including sexual exploitation, forced labour and forced criminality.
The Government is fully committed to identifying and supporting victims of this terrible crime.
The General Scheme of the Criminal Justice (Sexual Offences and Human Trafficking) Bill 2022, published last July, will put a revised National Referral Mechanism (NRM) on a statutory footing, making it easier for victims of trafficking to come forward, be identified, and access support.
In addition to An Garda Síochána, it is proposed that a number of agencies will become competent authorities for the identification of victims of human trafficking. These include the Workplace Relations Commission, the Department of Social Protection, the Immigration Service of the Department of Justice, the HSE, Tusla and International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS). Some NGOs will also be designated as ‘trusted partners’ and will be able to make referrals to the competent authorities. This will provide an alternative and trusted pathway to recognition by a competent authority.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that the number of referrals included in the National Referral Mechanism in this jurisdiction in relation to human trafficking investigations for 2019-2022 is as follows:
- 2019 - 42
- 2020 - 34
- 2021 - 44
- 2022 - 42
I am informed by An Garda Síochána that the 2023 figures cannot be included at this point as the initial 60 day recovery and rest period has not yet expired.
