Amid growing public backlash, the Irish government has scrapped its proposed hate speech laws. Justice Minister Helen McEntee announced that the Criminal Justice Bill would no longer include the contentious provisions on hate speech, following significant criticism from free speech advocates and prominent voices like Elon Musk.
While the government will continue pursuing legislation targeting hate crimes, the decision to abandon the hate speech elements reflects the challenges of navigating free expression concerns.
Massive Free Speech Victory!
Ireland's government has abandoned its proposed hate speech law, which would have allowed the police to enter homes and search phones and computers for wrongthink
This is wonderful news that gives us momentum to beat back totalitarianism worldwide! pic.twitter.com/zzO4gl89zh
— Michael Shellenberger (@shellenberger) September 21, 2024
Sources:
https://www.rte.ie/news/analysis-and-comment/2024/0922/1471263-hate-speech-bill/
https://www.aol.com/news/ireland-drops-plans-hate-speech-194436708.html