We must seek to eliminate the sex industry, not regulate it

Published: Wednesday, December 12, 2012

The National Women's Council of Ireland recently presented its submission on the review of legislation on prostitution in Ireland at a hearing of the Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality.

On the occasion of the hearing, Orla O'Connor, Director of the National Women's Council of Ireland said,

'Prostitution cannot be seen as an occupation which women freely choose but it is both a cause and consequence of the range of inequalities that women face in Irish society, in particular socio-economic inequalities, barriers to active participation and inequality of opportunities and outcomes. No matter how a woman enters prostitution it is harmful. Prostitution has a devastating impact on both the physical and mental wellbeing of women and girls.'

She continued,

'We must seek to eliminate the sex industry, not regulate it. Regulation does not protect women and it does not work. It only legitimises and encourages an industry that is inherently harmful to women. The introduction of legislation to criminalise the purchase of sex while at the same time decriminalising those who sell sexual acts and offering enhanced and sustained support services to women who wish to exit is the only viable way to work towards an end to this exploitative industry.'

Read full version of NWCI Submission on the Review of Legislation on Prostitution