Le’aufa’amulia Asenati
Lole-Taylor
Spokesperson for Social Policy/Welfare
May 21, 2014

More People Get Hurt with the Long Delays

New Zealand First is calling for the Government to get serious about street prostitution in response to worsening violence and abuse towards sex workers and the public.

“The Government has allowed the prostitution industry to follow the law of the jungle for far too long. Something has to be done now because prostitution-related crime is getting out of control,” says Spokesperson for Social Policy Le’aufa’amulia Asenati Lole-Taylor.

“It is happening far too often with street sex workers being physically and sexually abused by disgruntled clients, gang members and others.

“They need protection, and should be provided with clear guidelines where they can carry out their business in registered facilities.

“One of the main shortcomings of the Prostitution Reform Act 2003 was decriminalising prostitution without proper regulations in place to protect both sex workers and the wider community.

“Many of the people engaging in street-based prostitution are heavy drug and alcohol users. South Auckland and central Christchurch residents frequently face intimidating behaviour and harassment.

“New Zealand First’s Prostitution (Control of Street Prostitutes and Their Clients) Amendment Bill will address many of the problems of the Prostitution Reform Act by providing a safer environment for both prostitutes and residents.

“The Government must not ignore the serious social problems this is causing. Our New Zealand First bill will lead to safer streets,” says Mrs Lole-Taylor.

ENDS

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