The new bill entitled the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Bill 2015 has seen the introduction of new offences which relate to the sexual exploitation of children, invitations to sexual touching and sexual activity in the presence of a minor and paying for the purpose of sexually exploiting a child.
Under the new legislation, individuals who make contact with children via mobile or online communication for the purpose of sexual exploitation will be criminalised and could face up to 14 years behind bars for the offences.
Commenting on the new bill, the Minister for Justice outlined its various facets, saying: "Sexual grooming of children can include familiarising children with sexually explicit material, with a view to developing an, ultimately exploitative, relationship with that child."
The Minister for Justice insists that the contempt held for those who exploit children in Ireland can be seen in the gravity of the punishment meted out under the new legislation.
"These new offences and heavy sanctions reflect the seriousness of these crimes and reaffirm our societal determination to punish those who exploit innocent children," she explained.
Praising the bill's publication today, the Children's Rights Alliance said: "It will send out the message that Ireland is not a soft target for paedophiles, pimps and traffickers."
In addition to the aforementioned elements, the new bill also offers additional protection for victims of sexual offences who may be at continued risk.
