Mayo Soroptimists lead way in push to combat human trafficking

Over 140 members of the public gathered in the Grand National Hotel, Ballina, for a powerful and moving event hosted by the Castlebar and Ballina branches of Soroptimist International Republic of Ireland (SIROI), shining a vital spotlight on the critical issue of human trafficking.

Organised by Eileen Kelly, National Programme Action Officer and member of SI Ballina and strongly supported by both clubs, the event was part of Soroptimist Ireland’s national awareness initiative aimed at educating communities and driving action on one of the fastest-growing global crimes.

The evening featured keynote contributions from Minister Dara Calleary TD for Social Protection, Rural and Community Development and a video message from Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan.

Attendees also heard from members of An Garda Síochána, Karen Coghlan and Vincent Reynolds, Mullingar who were involved in the successful prosecution of Ireland’s first human trafficking case—bringing real-life context to the scale and urgency of the issue.

Inspector Paddy McGirl, Roscommon, highlighted the resources within the gardaí to deal with this crime.

Ruhama was represented by Majella Darcy and Sara Wallace who explained the services and work of their organisation.

This is an Irish NGO who provide support to women impacted by prostitution and human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation.

They have offices nationwide. They are sister project of White Ribbon in the north of Ireland.

National president of Soroptimist Ireland, Anne O’Sullivan, addressed the gathering and commended the two Mayo clubs for their leadership.

She said: “This event is a shining example of the difference our Soroptimist clubs can make.

"Human trafficking is happening here in Ireland—and it will take strong communities, like those in Ballina and Castlebar, to raise awareness and demand justice.”

This event is one of a series of county-level launches being held across the country by Soroptimist Ireland as a part of its two year National project “Hidden in Plain Sight”, each one building public understanding and encouraging collective action.

The strong turnout and engaged discussion in Ballina marked Mayo as a leading voice in this national effort.

PHOTO: Members of SI Ballina and Castlebar pictured at the workshop.

At back: Teresa Murphy, Anne O' Malley, Marion Fox, Eileen Diamond, Valerie Irwin, Frances Walkin, Geraldine McKenzie, Lorraine Kelly, Marie Murphy and Ann McHugh.

At front are Yvonne Ward, president SI Ballina. Eileen Kelly, SI Ballina, National Programme Action Co Ordinator, and National President Soroptimists Ireland, Ann O'Sullvan, SI Castlebar.