The Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee, is set to make changes to the contentious hate crime bill next week. The bill, officially known as the Criminal Justice (Incitement to Violence or Hatred or Hate Offences) Bill, has faced criticism for its lack of clarity on hate speech and its potential threat to free speech.
After consulting with leaders of the three Government parties, amendments will be introduced in the Seanad to remove the most controversial elements of the bill. However, the bill will still include provisions for higher prison sentences in cases where hatred can be proven under existing legislation.
This move comes after significant questioning and criticism of the original bill, which sought to address incitement to violence or hatred. The amendments aim to strike a balance between combating hate crimes and protecting freedom of expression.