A study by an Eastern Health Board working group of child prostitution in Dublin has revealed that a growing number of children, some as young as 13, are working on the streets. The report, to be presented to members of the EHB tonight, is the first of its kind and highlights the serious nature of the problem.
The EHB report says it is evident there is a market for sex with under-age children in the capital. During its investigation the group discovered that it was apparently possible for paedophiles to specifically request a child prostitute from some brothels or massage parlours.
Because of the increasing demand older teenagers working as prostitutes are changing their appearance to look younger. most of the children involved are homeless it appears there may also be parental exploitation of children who are not homeless. The investigation, which began in March, found that 57 boys and girls, one aged 13, were working as child prostitutes. However, the group found it difficult to quantify the problem and believes this number is an underestimate. Some children on the streets are believed to be as young as 12, according to a report in the Irish Medical Times.
Recommendations have been made to tackle the problem, including a central role for health providers. One of the key points made by the group is that where a child is involved in prostitution it should be viewed as sexual abuse on the part of any pimp involved or the person paying money for sex. The focus needed to be directed at those people.
As well as EHB personnel a number of child welfare agencies, including Barnardos, Focus Ireland, the St Vincent's Trust, the Garda and the Department of Education were represented on the working group.