Ireland Drops Hate Speech Laws Amid Criticism, Confirms Helen McEntee

Sep 21, 2024, 02:24 PM

The Irish government has decided to drop its controversial plans to introduce new hate speech laws. This decision comes after significant criticism from various quarters, including its own backbenchers, free speech groups, and prominent figures like Elon Musk and Conor McGregor. The proposed legislation, part of the Criminal Justice (Incitement to Violence or Hatred and Hate Offences) Bill 2022, would have allowed police to search homes and devices for 'hateful' material and could have resulted in jail time for possession of such material. The bill could have imposed punishments of up to 5 years in jail. While the hate speech elements have been removed, the government will still proceed with the hate crime aspects of the bill. Minister for Justice Helen McEntee confirmed the removal of the contentious elements but emphasized the continuation of efforts to address hate crimes through other legislative measures.