Trafficking in Unaccompanied Minors in Ireland
August 2003
Published by IOM Dublin, the report is a small-scale investigative study looking at trafficking in unaccompanied minors in Ireland. It examines the legal framework in Ireland for addressing the trafficking in minors; describes the institutions and services for the protection of unaccompanied minors who are victims of trafficking and identifies the policy responses being implemented in Ireland to combat trafficking in children and protect the victims.
The objectives of this research was to examine the legal framework in Ireland for addressing the prosecution of perpetrators of trafficking in minors; describe the institutions and services for the protection of unaccompanied minors who are victims of trafficking and their reception into the care of public authorities and thirdly, to identify the policy responses being implemented in Ireland to combat trafficking in children and protect the victims. |
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The study found that Ireland had a relatively modern and comprehensive legal framework in place to prosecute suspected trafficking in children and related offences, in a range of circumstances. While there was evidence of extensive resources applied to trafficking investigations, this has not manifested itself in successful prosecutions. The legal framework for child protection in cases involving suspected trafficking or smuggling of children was also wide in scope.
The report’s recommendations include improving the collection of statistical data on unaccompanied minors and trafficking and providing secure legal status for these child victims for whom no asylum claim has been made as well as ending the accommodation of child trafficking victims in adult hostels or dormitory accommodation in reception centres.
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The report is also available from the IOM Dublin office at a price of €10. For a copy, please contact info@iomdublin.org or call (01) 87 87 900.
