People can still have 'full and robust debate' under new law but 'cannot incite hated or violence against others'
Minister for Justice Helen McEntee: The legislation will criminalise intentional or reckless communication or behaviour likely to incite violence or hatred against people associated with a 'protected characteristic'. Photograph: Brian Lawless/PA Wire
“Some have erroneously claimed there is significant opposition to the legislation because of the false belief that offensive speech would be criminalised – when this is not what is being proposed,” said the Minister, adding that protection for freedom of expression was “expressly provided for in the Bill”.
“This is not a new or radical departure in Irish law,” Ms McEntee told Wednesday’s conference, adding that incitement to hatred has been a criminal offence since 1989. The legislation is in its third stage of passing through the Seanad and aims to update laws criminalising hate speech and legislating against hate crimes for the first time.
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