Reports highlights child trafficking

Ten per cent of unaccompanied children coming to Ireland are believed to be the victims of child trafficking, according to a report published today by the International Organisation for Migration.

The report said research had indicated that around 10% of unaccompanied minors arriving in Ireland were smuggled into the state illegally.

The children, aged between three and 17, come mainly from the Balkans, Romania and west Africa.

Pauline Conroy, the author of the report, said it clearly indicated the existence of child trafficking into Ireland.