Cork is believed to have as many as 100 human trafficking victims at any given time, according to the Lord Mayor of Cork City. This figure was highlighted this week at “Human Trafficking in Cork: A Refocus”, a conference in Vertigo, the picturesque top-floor of Cork County Hall. We in Cork County PPN were delighted to have the opportunity to host the event, organized to address the issue of trafficking.
CAHT is a collaborative effort involving various agencies dedicated to combating human trafficking, spear-headed by the incredible Mary Crilly, including the Sexual Violence Centre Cork, An Garda Síochána, the Legal Aid Board, and the HSE, among others – and a uniquely singular initiative in Ireland.
Mary Crilly, the CEO of the Sexual Violence Centre Cork noted that the conference coincided with World Day against Trafficking in Persons. She thanked our Cork County PPN Coordinator, Morrin Drislane, stressing that the event would not have happened without her and said the event was a success, with over 100 attendees who participated throughout the day. She emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, “We wanted to bring everyone together.”
The conference highlighted the issues of labour trafficking and child trafficking and featured speakers from a Garda Síochána Super-Intendent, the WRC, and Mecpaths.
The Sexual Violence Centre has supported women who have been rescued from brothels during Garda raids.
Concern was raised that many child trafficking cases are likely going undetected in Cork, when compared to the thousands of cases investigated annually in the UK.
Another powerhouse woman we were star-struck to have at the event was Cork Penny Dinners’ Catriona Twomey who emphasized that if Mary Crilly says there is a need for more action, then it is time to act.
The event created a strong “call to action” for greater collaboration, and Cork County PPN is delighted that the new Mayor of County Cork, Mary Linehan Foley, is eager to learn more and have Mary Crilly back to speak to the full County Council.
Lord Mayor of Cork, Fergal Dennehy, also spoke at the event, urging Cork residents to “be aware, be vigilant, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or report concerns.”
He concluded with a message to victims: “you’re not invisible, you are not alone.”