A group representing sex workers says the jailing of two women who were operating a brothel proves our prostitution laws are not fit for purpose.
The pair received nine-month sentences at Naas District Court last week.
Adrina Podaru, 25, and 20-year-old Ana Tomascu were living at a property in Newbridge, Co Kildare, when it was raided last November.
The pair were charged with keeping a brothel and both women admitted offering sexual services for money. Ms Podaru, who is pregnant, lodged an appeal and was released on bail.
Sex Workers Alliance Ireland said: “Jailing a pregnant, migrant sex worker shows we have not moved away from our dark past.
“The facts of this case show the 2017 Sexual Offences Law is not fit for purpose.
“There were no clients present, very little money and no evidence of the workers being coerced into their job.”
The Department of Justice has been approached for comment.
