Donna Moore
Gaye Dalton, a former sex worker and prominent activist, shared her insights on the "Nordic Model" of sex work.
Donna Moore: Gaye, can you briefly outline your background?
Gaye Dalton: I was a sex worker myself from 1980 to 1993. I've been an activist opposing the Nordic Model since then.
Donna Moore: What's your stance on sex work?
Gaye Dalton: I view it as work, a choice, and a last resort for some. Criminalizing sex work is wrong, just like criminalizing any other honest work.
Donna Moore: How does this contrast with the Nordic Model, which is the basis of sex work legislation in Ireland?
Gaye Dalton: The Nordic Model primarily targets sex buyers, making sex workers' lives harder and more dangerous. It infantilizes sex workers and disregards their needs and autonomy.
Donna Moore: Why does the Nordic Model retain support?
Gaye Dalton: A powerful civil society clique benefits from this model, receiving funding and influence. The model also serves to distract from addressing the root causes of sex work.
Donna Moore: What are the alternatives?
Gaye Dalton: I propose exit resources for anyone whose work harms them, not just sex workers. Decriminalization, not legalization, is the way forward.
Donna Moore: What hope do you have for the future?
Gaye Dalton: The current political climate is extremely hostile to sex workers. I fear things will only worsen, with politicians prioritizing their own interests over the well-being of sex workers