On Thursday October 18th, European Anti Human Trafficking Day, Srs. Joan Roddy dmj and Mary Ryan rsm gave a presentation to the Justice & Peace Group on Human Trafficking & its effects, in NUI Maynooth. Following an interesting talk by Joan and some lively discussion, the Social Studies students organised a Blue/White Blindfold march from the Arts Building to the John Hume Building.

Srs. Mary Ryan and Joan Roddy in Maynooth

This activity caught the attention of a large number of students on their lunch break and did far more to raise awareness than many presentations! Several students asked about the significance of the Blue Blindfold, which is the campaign organised by the Department of Justice to end trafficking and alerts us “not to close our eyes to what is going on around us”.

Others asked about trafficking and why today? It was a unique opportunity to explain basic facts on the topic to those interested.

I realise that many of you have already contacted your local TD’s by email or in person with regard to the upcoming expected changes in legislation around prostitution. We in APT (Act to Prevent Trafficking) are working with Turn off the Red Light Campaign to lobby for this legislation. If you or any of your friends wish to participate in this effort please visit this web site www.turnofftheredlight.ie

There you will find information and instructions on how to send in your petition .The prevention or the regulation of prostitution would indirectly put an end to trafficking as it would reduce the demand for young women and children lured into this business either by force, poverty, deceit or ignorance.

Mary Ryan rsm
Congregation