Speaking on a statement by the Minister for Local Government and Communities on Tackling Human Trafficking in Wales today, Cllr Janet Finch-Saunders AM said:

"One of the key issues we need to address is empowering people to come forward when they are victims of this horrendous and brutal crime.

"The Black Association of Women Step Out has highlighted the fact that victims are reluctant to come forward because of the fear of blame or shame and the stress of relating their experiences.

"One example is that of a woman who felt much safer in jail, as, when she was brought into custody, it was the first time in a long time that she had not been forced to have sex.

"I also have concerns about the Olympics, because there is evidence that international events of this magnitude fundamentally increase trafficking activity.

"We, in Wales, must be confident that we will have sufficient refuge places for those who come forward, and must build awareness, perhaps through our schools and in other areas where we need to reach out

"Some of the statistics are quite frightening: the UK Human Trafficking Centre recorded 1,481 referrals. These referrals were of people of 88 different nationalities, so, again, this must be considered and we must and work across any cultural divides so that everyone feels that they can come forward and so that, when they do, we can support them and take the most positive way forward."