The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Charlie Flanagan T.D. yesterday announced €28,000 in funding for the counter-trafficking efforts of the Unione Internazionale delle Superiore Generali (UISG), a network of women's religious congregations.
Speaking in Rome, where he is undertaking St. Patrick’s Day engagements, Minister Flanagan said:
"Human trafficking in Africa is increasing, with children accounting for almost 60% of the victims. I am pleased to announce this funding today which will support work in seven countries in Africa to combat human-trafficking, and to assist its victims.
Minister Flanagan was speaking at the formal opening of the Chancery of the Embassy of Ireland to the Holy See. He said:
"Ireland and the Holy See share a commitment to fight human-trafficking and this is one example of how we can work together to put our values into action in a way that helps some of the most vulnerable people in the world.
This work is vital, practical and engages directly with the communities worst affected by these crimes."