282. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the terms regarding the upcoming three year review of the Criminal Offences Bill 2017 in view of the fact that there has been an increase in attacks on sex workers; the measures being taken by the Garda protective services bureau to combat such attacks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47871/19]

As the Deputy will be aware, Part 4 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2017 is due to be reviewed in 2020, after 3 years of its operation.

My Department is at present undertaking the necessary preparatory work for the preparation of this report, including through the funding of relevant research. I will follow up with the Deputy when that work is further advanced and submissions will be sought from interested parties when the review commences.

I have sought further information from the Garda authorities regarding the measures in place to tackle attacks on sex workers and will ensure that it is directly provided to the Deputy.