Laws going through Oireachtas ‘violate’ human rights of sex workers

Legislation going through the Oireachtas is “likely to violate” the human rights of sex workers, according to a legal opinion published yesterday.

Senior counsel Michael Lynn said there was a large body of evidence that called into “very serious question” the effectiveness of the Swedish model, which criminalises the purchase of sex, in reducing prostitution.

The Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Bill — which contains provisions to criminalise those who buy sex — is back before the Oireachtas and Tánaiste Frances Fitzgerald hopes it will be enacted by the end of the year.