THE SEANAD WAS told today that Ireland my be in breach of civil rights obligations over its treatment of trafficking victims.

The Immigrant Council of Ireland spoke to Senators and outlined how over half of those trafficked to Ireland do not get access to proper supports.

The ICI say that not only do those trafficked here not receive adequate education and training when they’ve been identified as trafficking victims, but they also don’t receive enough legal help.

“In addition, despite international obligations to provide measures whereby victims of organised crime and human trafficking can access compensation, the avenues provided in Ireland through civil action are limited,” added Hikka Becker, solicitor with ICI.

One of the areas the ICI are particular focusing on in their submission to the Seanad is the issue of domestic and gender-based violence suffered by foreign nationals.

The council want a formal recognition of domestic violence in immigration law which would enable dependent family members to apply to remain remain in Ireland as victims of domestic violence.

They also argue that the current discretionary approach that is taken in the granting of an independent residence permit to victims of violence should be put on a statutory basis.

Read the ICI’s full submission to the Seanads here >

Read: The State is failing to spot victims of trafficking, here’s why… >

Read: ‘Strongest response possible’ needed to combat human trafficking in Ireland >

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