AQW 40132/22-27

Ms Paula Bradshaw
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 09/02/2026
Answered On Date: 25/02/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy for an update on how any imminent legislation may address human trafficking and the exploitation of workers, who have recently arrived in Northern Ireland.

Answer:

The Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Strategy 2024-2027 includes commitments to ensure that appropriate assistance and support is available to all victims of slavery and trafficking identified in the North and to support understanding of the need for supply chain transparency in respect of exploitation.

My officials and colleagues from the Department of Justice maintain regular engagement with counterparts in Britain to monitor emerging policy and legislative changes concerning labour exploitation, and there is regular engagement with the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority via the Organised Crime Task Force Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Sub-group.

Looking forward, we will consider how best to work collaboratively across enforcement fields with the Fair Work Agency established by the British Government.

My Good Jobs Bill will also discourage exploitative employment practices through, for example, establishing enhanced rights of trade union access and increasing restrictions on the use of zero hours contracts.