Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission raises concerns to Council of Europe monitoring body
The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (IHREC), in its role as Ireland’s Independent National Rapporteur on Trafficking in Human Beings, has highlighted serious concerns about the lack of progress in Ireland’s response to human trafficking and warned of potential backsliding in critical areas.
In a letter to the Council of Europe’s Group of Experts on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings (GRETA), IHREC outlines a number of ongoing concerns, including:
- delays in implementing a statutory National Referral Mechanism (NRM) for the identification, protection and assistance of victims of trafficking,
- shortcomings and delays in the transposition of an EU Directive on anti-trafficking into Irish law,
- and a worsening situation regarding accommodation for victims of trafficking.
Chief Commissioner Liam Herrick said:
“Human trafficking is not an abstract issue. It is something that is happening in every town in Ireland. Imagine a woman who has escaped exploitation and finally reaches out for help. At that point, she should be able to access support quickly, know where she can stay safely, and be treated with dignity. Instead, she faces delays, uncertainty and barriers to essential services. That is just not good enough.”
Despite legislation being enacted in 2024 to establish a statutory National Referral Mechanism, the new system has yet to become operational. IHREC is aware and concerned that victims continue to face delays and inconsistencies in identification and support, while there remains no clear timeline for implementation.
The Commission has also raised concerns that Ireland’s current plans to transpose the strengthened EU anti-trafficking obligations do not provide for proper transposition of the amended Directive1, particularly in relation to victims’ rights to assistance and support.
In addition, IHREC has received reports from stakeholders that access to safe accommodation for victims of trafficking has deteriorated in recent months. Some victims are reportedly facing significant barriers in securing any safe place to stay, leaving them vulnerable and without the supports they need to recover.
Mr Herrick added:
“Ireland has made important commitments to combat human trafficking, but commitments must be matched by consistent action. We are concerned that progress in key areas has stalled and that, in some respects, the situation may be moving backwards. Victims need effective systems, clear rights and practical supports that work when they need them most.”
As Independent National Rapporteur, IHREC monitors Ireland’s response to human trafficking and reports independently on the State’s compliance with its national, European and international obligations.
The Commission has called for the urgent implementation of the statutory National Referral Mechanism, stronger protections and assistance for victims in forthcoming legislation, and immediate action to ensure access to safe and appropriate accommodation for all victims of trafficking.
1 Observations on Part 4 and Part 5 of the General Scheme of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences, Domestic Violence and International Instruments) Bill 2025 p. 23