Ireland needs a more measurable and proactive approach to human trafficking and a better understanding of the nuances involved, according to international experts in anti-human trafficking, who remain critical of the Government’s latest action plan to combat the problem for what they cite as lacking a range of protection policies.
In September 2021 the first convictions in Ireland for human trafficking were handed down by the courts with other investigations ongoing by An Garda Síochána. In addition to the new National Action Plan, other initiatives which aim to help combat human trafficking include the improvements being made to the Criminal Justice System to support victims through the implementation of ‘Supporting a Victim’s Journey’.
Several Government Departments, An Garda Síochána, TUSLA and the HSE will have significant roles to play in the implementation of the Third National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking. The ultimate goals of the plan are to create a more victim-centred approach to identify and support victims, to raise awareness and provide training for those who need it and to prevent, detect and prosecute the traffickers.
The HSE’s Anti Human Trafficking Team will develop an online presence for reaching vulnerable and ‘hard to reach’ victims with a view to increasing access to medical and social care services. The plan aims to ensure that all professionals in contact with children, and working on child-related matters, are qualified.
