Naomi Long

The public consultation will consider the introduction of slavery and trafficking risk orders, the commencement and nature of the duty to notify provisions, and new powers to search an individual during a property search under existing legislation.

Launching the consultation, justice minister Naomi Long said: “Modern slavery and human trafficking can affect anyone, of any age, gender or nationality. Criminals and organised crime groups seek to exploit and abuse vulnerable people for their own gains and it is vital that law enforcement and other partners have the means to address and eradicate this callous form of criminality.

“Whilst a lot of work has been undertaken since the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Criminal Justice and Support for Victims) Act (Northern Ireland) 2015 was introduced, we must continue to ensure that appropriate measures are in place to deal with perpetrators and provide support and assistance to the victims of these heinous crimes.

“We are putting forward proposals for consultation which will help to strengthen the criminal justice response and I would encourage all those with an interest in tackling this terrible abuse to engage in the process.”

The consultation is available online will run for 12 weeks until 27 May 2022.