Lap dance clubs reject prostitution links

Owners of lap dancing clubs in Ireland have rejected claims made today that there is a connection between their clubs and prostitution.

The Ruhama group, a charity which works with prostitutes called for the banning of lap dancing in Ireland.

They say research shows lap dancing clubs often develop into brothels.

Manager of La Petite lap dancing club in Dublin, Paul Lawless, said: "Prostitution doesn't enter into it at all."

He added: "All the club owners would be of a similar mind, they are keeping their clubs legal, prostitution is illegal, so they're not going to entertain that."

He also believes it is because the industry is so new ere that it is being particularly scrutinised: "All the clubs I have been involved with are aware that because this business is new, it is under scrutiny at all times, so they’re very careful to ensure that what we do is totally clean."