Le’aufa’amulia Asenati

Lole-Taylor

Spokesperson for Social Policy/Welfare
27 February 2014

Safety of Street Prostitutes Being Neglected

New Zealand First wants immediate action to resolve the growing problem of street prostitution in New Zealand.

Spokesperson for Social Policy Le’aufa’amulia Asenati Lole-Taylor says there is more and more evidence to reinforce the need for better control of the prostitution industry.

“I visited Manchester Street in Christchurch again recently and witnessed the on-going problems that street-based prostitution is imposing on the local community there. The industry is attracting more clients and trouble is spreading into other residential areas despite street sex workers being told to stay away.

“It was clear that street prostitution is still the main gateway for underage prostitution. The Government needs to ensure that young people who find themselves in these situations are protected.

“Prostitution attracts crime which jeopardises the safety of local residents and street prostitutes.

“When the Government fails to make and enforce tighter controls, gangs and criminals take the opportunity to rule the streets with total disregard for street prostitutes and their rights.

“The Government needs to show some leadership on this pressing issue by supporting the Prostitution Reform (Control of Street Prostitutes and Their Clients) Amendment Bill, which aims to restrict commercial sex services to brothels and private premises.

“New Zealand First put this member’s bill forward so appropriate practices and services can be put in place to protect the rights of sex workers and ensure their safety,” says Mrs Lole-Taylor.

ENDS

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