More action needed to address human trafficking

Labour Party Senator Ivana Bacik has called for stronger Government action to address human trafficking.

It comes as investigations continue into the discovery of the bodies of 39 people in the back of a lorry in Essex this week.

Senator Bacik commented:

“On behalf of the Labour Party, I wish to express my deep sympathies to the families of the victims of this awful tragedy.

“While investigations are still ongoing, this tragic case highlights the need for stronger Government action to address the causes of human trafficking and provide adequate protections for victims of trafficking.

“In June, the annual Trafficking in Persons Report by the US State Department found that despite making significant efforts, the Irish Government was still not meeting the minimum standards needed in the fight against human trafficking.

“In particular, we need to provide effective supports for those who are victims of trafficking, and ensure that organisations supporting victims are adequately resourced.

“We also need to ramp up our efforts to seek resolution to ongoing conflicts like that in Syria, which drive so many people to seek refuge in safe countries like Ireland.”