The Irish Government has delayed the most divisive aspect of its ‘hate speech’ Bill, following widespread criticism.
Minister for Justice Helen McEntee confirmed that the “incitement to hatred element does not have a consensus, so that will be dealt with at a later stage”.
However, she pledged to continue with plans in the Criminal Justice (Incitement to Violence or Hatred and Hate Offences) Bill to allow tougher sentences where crimes are deemed to be motivated by hostility towards a protected group.
Free speech
Former Attorney General Senator Michael McDowell welcomed the news, noting that the Government’s refusal to define the term “hatred” could have led to people being “prosecuted on very flimsy words”.
He emphasised: “The reality is that the right to free speech also entails the right to offend and as long as it’s not calculated to cause violence or cause a riot, then we have to put up with it.
- Preaching in church: A strong sermon commending marriage and celibacy and condemning sexual immorality – including same-sex relations – could be deemed ‘abusive’ by an easily offended visitor.
- Online activity: If someone doesn’t like what you say online, you could be investigated by the Gardai.
- Public reading of Scripture: Reading aloud from Romans 1, 1 Corinthians 6 or 1 Timothy 1 could lead to a complaint that you are using the Bible to stir up hatred against gay people or atheists.
“I’ve had to put up with it as a politician. We have to face up to the fact that free speech means things which some people may not like”.
Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Paschal Donohoe acknowledged the Bill’s shortcomings, but said the Government is addressing ‘hate speech’ in other areas, such as social media.
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