A group representing sex workers has criticised the Government for what it says is “criminalising” workers.

The comments come as today marks International Sex Workers Day.

They say those in the sex industry are at continued risk of violence and that their safety is being ignored by the State.

Kate McGrew from Sex Workers Alliance Ireland said that there is often a reluctance to report such crimes.

“We know that sex workers do suffer various kinds of abuse, and it’s not getting reported to the Gardaí because, and there are numerous reasons, they don’t think they’ll believe the worker, they’re afraid they’ll get in trouble again for prostitution-related charges.”