Agencies claim sex-trafficking victims are in Direct Provision centres

Four frontline agencies have written to The Minister for Justice Frances Fitzgerald raising concerns about victims of sex-trafficking being placed in Direct Provision Centres across the country.

The Immigrant Council is warning that victims of sex-trafficking, living in Direct Provision, are in danger of abuse, threats and violence.

In a submission to the Justice Minister, four of the main frontline agencies are calling for better protection for those who have been sexually exploited.

Denise Charlton, Chief Executive of the Immigrant Council of Ireland, says there are alternative accommodation options.

She said: "There are exisitng other service providers, such as Focus and Sonas Housing, that are working with victims of gender-based violence already.

"They have safe accommodation, they have the staff that are trained and we would be urging the minister to change the accommodation from Direct Provision to this more appropriate accommodation."