‘Number of children being trafficked here is underestimated’

Last year, the UK identified 7,000 child trafficking victims; Ireland identified just five. MECPATHS wants more education about the crime and reform of the way it is detected

Last year, the UK identified 7,000 child trafficking victims; Ireland identified just five. The Serp research programme and the MECPATHS agency are calling for more education about the crime and reform of the way it is detected. Stock picture 

There is considerable disquiet among human rights agencies in Ireland about efforts to identify and rescue children in the clutches of criminal and sexual exploitation.

Tomorrow, Tuesday July 30, the 10th World Day Against Human Trafficking will take place against the backdrop of long delays in introducing a mechanism that links gardaí with other agencies involved in child protection.