Campaign Launched To Raise Awareness Of Human Trafficking

• to raise awareness of the problem of human trafficking with the public and relevant public sector personnel,
• to appeal to the public and public sector personnel to report any suspicions anonymously to the Gardaí, and
• to discourage the demand for the services of victims of sexual and labour exploitation.

The campaign is based on the 'blue blindfold' concept, initially developed by the United Kingdom, which has as its message 'Don't close your eyes' to Human Trafficking.

The blindfold represents the risk of people having their eyes closed and being unaware of the crime that may be going on around them.   

Speaking at the joint launch Minister Ahern said, "Trafficking in human beings is a form of modern day slavery which has no place in our, or indeed in any, society.

"Ireland is committed, with our international partners, to taking a strong approach to combating trafficking in human beings."

The Minister emphasized the seriousness of the offences created in the Criminal Law (Human Trafficking) Act 2008 - operational since 7 June 2008: "Trafficking in human beings for labour, sexual exploitation or removal of organs are among the most serious offences that can be committed against the person and this is reflected in the maximum penalty of life imprisonment which can be imposed on conviction."

The Minister urged the public and the authorities of the need to be vigilant and aware that the trafficking of people for labour or sexual exploitation may be taking place in any of our communities. He encouraged them to report any suspicions to An Garda Síochána.