The Irish Network Against Racism group (INAR) have relaunched a “hate crime” campaign to make racism, bigotry and inequality a criminal offence reports Breakingnews.ie
In December 2020 the Department of Justice published “Legislating for Hate Speech and Hate Crime in Ireland’ in December following the conclusion of its review of the Prohibition of Incitement to Hatred Act 1989.
Independent Senator Eileen Flynn said she warmly welcomed the publication stating “If we want a society where all of us can participate as equals, then we need to recognise the particular damage and harm that hate crime causes, and find the best way to respond and protect us all.
Speaking at the relaunch, Claudia Hoareau, vice chair of INAR said: “We are very honoured to have activist and Senator Eileen Flynn relaunch this campaign that she was such an instrumental part in developing. Good hate crime legislation, while not a panacea for racism, bigotry and inequality”.
“We are looking forward to working with our Network, allies in the disability, LGBTQI+ organisations and wider civil society, to engage with members of the Oireachtas in the dialogue about the best ways to protect us all from the many harms of hate crime”.
According to The Irish Network Against Racism (INAR) website, their organisation spans 22 counties in Ireland with 63 national organisations as members including trade unions, lgbt+ groups, traveller groups and Church organisations. The organisation also host the “ireport” website to “report racism”.
Those in the Irish community who oppose criminalisation and advocate for free speech say the current legislation contained in the Prohibition of Incitement to Hatred Act 1989 is fit for purpose and does not require updating. They fear censorship of their views whilst recognising the need for the current Incitement to Hatred laws. Groups opposing new legislation are asking why the change is needed as current legislation already makes hate crimes illegal.
Tell us your thoughts in the Facebook post and share this with your friends.
