Fighting slavery - Laws must be updated

THE idea that anyone should be held in what amounts to slavery in a modern society is appalling.

However it is no less appalling than the official admission that suspected cases involving migrant workers in Ireland could not be pursued because of outdated legislation.

The Migrants Rights Centre of Ireland (MRCI) claim to have uncovered some 150 cases of forced labour but the courts could not intervene because our legislation is — again — inadequate.

This is the very fig leaf that seems to allow so many retired bankers to enjoy their golf unburdened by any responsibility for their economy-wrecking actions.

The relevant minister has promised to update legislation to protect people in the grip of criminal employers. In the light of shocking events in England it cannot come too soon.