The Children's Minister James Reilly says he is not in favour of reducing the age of consent.

Proposals drawn up by former Justice Minister Alan Shatter want the current age of 17 cut to 16, in line with some European countries.

But over the weekend, current Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald seemed to row back on the idea - over fears it could increase the trafficking of teenage prostitutes.

And Mr Reilly says he has concerns as well.