Originally Posted by
Bruno69
I think the need is too great and the business too lucrative for new legislation to stamp it out.
I'm a self-confessed addict, so i'll take a high level of risk and it won't stop me.
My immediate thought on reading this thread is, what level of proof is required to prosecute?
However this is difficult because to debate in favour of prostitution makes you a marked man and open to abuse and damage to your career and personal life.
Good points Bruno.
The fact that the need is too great and the industry lucrative - will I fear, only drive it further underground (and make it far more expensive because of the greater risk).
Like yourself, I'm a self confessed addict but would have too much to lose from being exposed. Hence I'll probably end up taking lots of weekend breaks to the U.K. and other parts of the continent such as Amsterdam. (Which would be such a waste seeing as my best punting experiences have all been in Ireland).
I think the strength of this new legislation is that they won't need much evidence to prosecute. Evidence of calls to escorts, internet usage of escorts sites - may all be used (I think). I also think that the real aim would be to embarass punters and therefore letters addressed to one's home or work address from the prosecutor general informing one of a summons to appear in court will do this. No need to gain a conviction there - damage will already be done (at least certainly in my case).
Lastly I full agree with your last point that we pretty much have our hands tied when it comes to public debate! I mean which of us would be willing to risk all and go public to defend "safe levels of escorting" as with E-I.
I'm not panicking ...yet. Just depressed about the whole thing. I can see a major joy/pleasure in my life being taken away..and unlike other 'political' issues I can't really fight for it publically.
"Don't be reckless with other people’s hearts. Don't put up with people who are reckless with yours"