IRELAND DEFAMATION LAW CONCERNS

A new Irish bill of law that would make blasphemy a crime is contrary to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the European Human Rights Convention, the League's General Secretary tells Ireland's Justice Minister.

If passed, the Bill that was introduced to the Irish Parliament on 29th April would prohibit publishing or uttering blasphemous matter, perpetrators could face fines of up to €100,000 and have their homes raided by members of the Garda Síochána in order to seize the offending material.

The full text of the letter can be found below.

«Minister Dermot Ahern Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform 94 Saint Stephen's Green Dublin 2, Ireland Email: info@... 21/05/09

Dear Minister Dermot Ahern

Defamation Hill Amendment

I am writing to express our concerns about the amendment to the Defamation Bill that was introduced to the Irish Parliament on the 29th April.

The Celtic League believes that a law that penalises defamation or blasphemy runs contrary to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the European Human Rights Convention, because it violates the principle of freedom of expression enshrined in international law. The law would also criminalise journalists, writers and publishers and prevent them from expressing their opinions in a free and democratic way – a right that is currently enshrined in the Irish Constitution.

The Celtic League therefore opposes the proposed Bill and believes that it should be removed completely.

Yours sincerely

Rhisiart Tal-e-bot General Secretary Celtic League»

J B Moffatt Director of Information Celtic League

21/05/09