Human trafficking offences

He has today published for consultation two new offences to bring Northern Ireland into line with the EU Directive on human trafficking.

As part of the consultation, the Minister also wants to hear how his Department can improve links with the growing number of organisations speaking out against human trafficking.

David Ford said: “During the recent Assembly debate on human trafficking, I informed the House of my intention to bring forward new legislation in this area.

“The launching of today’s public consultation starts that process. I want to move forward on this as quickly as possible to strengthen the law in Northern Ireland.”

The new offences extend powers to prosecute United Kingdom nationals who commit human trafficking offences anywhere in the world and create a specific offence to deal with those who traffic United Kingdom citizens within the United Kingdom.

The Justice Minister, who last week attended an event in Bangor to raise public awareness about the issue, is keen to explore what else can be done.

David Ford said: “Human trafficking is a global problem but we must act locally to both rescue those trafficked into Northern Ireland and bring those behind this form of modern day slavery before the courts.

“It is an issue which more and more people are becoming aware of, and are concerned about, and as part of the consultation process, I want to hear what more we can do to engage with those with an interest in this issue.

“I would encourage any organisation or group with an interest in tackling human trafficking to respond to the consultation, in order to further strengthen legislation and enable better engagement on this issue.”