Networking meeting of faith-based groups working to counter human trafficking.

APT members were delighted to join Dr. Gary Carville, Executive Secretary, Commission for Social Issues & International Affairs at the Irish Episcopal Conference in Maynooth, on 31 January 2024 together with representatives from the RENATE Europe Network, MECPATHS, Stella Maris, Santa Marta and the Vincent de Paul, to share and network together on the common mission to combat human trafficking and exploitation. It is particularly encouraging to know of the support of the Council for Justice and Peace and the wider Bishops’ Conference as we collaborate together on the common mission to combat human trafficking and exploitation.

It was a great opportunity to hear about the work of Stella Maris, looking after the needs of migrant fishermen and labourers on boats, many of whom are thousands of miles away from home and their families, uncertain of their security and status. Many endure harsh working conditions of long hours, precarious living conditions, poor wages, withheld papers/passports, dangerous work and intimidation. Many experience trafficking and fear for their safety.

JP O’ Sullivan & Ann Mara (MECPATHS) shared about the extensive work they have underway nationally, as they role out anti-Child Trafficking information and training programmes throughout both TUSLA and also the hospitality services sectors. Additionally, they are engaged in work with the Universities and training Border Control staff and are continuing to build capacity and be responsive to meet needs as they present themselves.

APT members who attended, shared about the ongoing work of introducing the cAPTives Programme for Post-primary students in schools on the island  of Ireland. Plans are afoot to extend the Programme to address the issues of technology and pornography and the role they play in human trafficking and exploitation. Reference was also made to the availability of  a replica of Timothy Schmalz’ sculpture ”Let the captives go free,” for display and awareness-raising purposes in venues such as churches/Community centres/schools/parishes etc. and take advantage of both the International Day of Prayer & Awareness against Human Trafficking  (8 February next) + 17 March, St. Patrick’s Day, to raise awareness and educate about human trafficking and exploitation.

Kevin Hyland updated from the Santa Marta group, who are now working with the G20 countries on 6 priority areas (1. Better Supply Chains; 2. Internet Governance; 3. Tainted money; 4. Deploying the Palermo Protocol & the ILO to good effect; 5. Maximising the support from institutions such as the ILO, the UN, the ICJ and the OHCHR; 6. Leadership & the Church.  He also mentioned a forthcoming conference in Cork in late February 2024.

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