A man has been convicted and fined for paying women for sex - the first such conviction under new laws.

He was convicted at Dublin District Court on Monday and fined €200.

He was discovered paying women for sex during a raid at a brothel in Blanchardstown in Dublin, and charged under Part 4 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2017.

The legislation, which criminalises the purchase of sex, came into effect in March 2017 following years of campaigning.

The act criminalises sex-buyers, while decriminalising individuals who sell sex.

Ruhama, a charity which supports women affected by prostitution and sex-trafficking, has welcomed the conviction.

CEO Sarah Benson said: "This case sends a clear message to Irish society that it is not acceptable to pay for access to another person's body for sexual gratification.

"Sex buyers have been operating with impunity in Ireland for far too long, and we are hopeful that more convictions will be achieved under this legislation in future.

"Evidence has shown that tackling 'demand' is a key mechanism for preventing the sexual exploitation of the most vulnerable in our society.

"While the sex trade continues to thrive due to buyer's demand, the criminal gangs running it are profiting."

She added: "An essential component of the law introduced in 2017 was the decriminalisation of individuals selling sex, in recognition that those in prostitution are often vulnerable and marginalised.

"They are also at high risk of suffering as victims of crimes including trafficking, sexual assaults and robbery.

"They should never be considered criminals but rather offered support and assistance, including from the Gardaí should they require it."

It is estimated that there are up to 1,000 people in prostitution in Ireland at any time, mostly behind closed doors.

Any individuals who are involved in the sex-trade and need support can text the word 'REACH' for free to 50100 for a confidential call back