Deputy Mattie McGrath, leader of the Rural Independent Group, is hitting out at Government and opposition TDs for approving the controversial Hate Crime Bill, which passed by 78 votes to 52 with no abstentions in last night’s Dáil vote.
The Bill will provide for increased prison sentences for certain crimes, where proven to be motivated by hatred, or where hatred is demonstrated. For example, the legislation will ensure that assault aggravated by hatred, or damage to property aggravated by hatred, will attract higher prison sentences. Where hatred is not proven, a person can still be charged with assault or damage to property.
The Tipperary TD says “This bill is a punitive measure that threatens democracy and freedom of expression and despite minor changes, it remains deeply flawed and lacks clear definitions of what constitutes hate and gender.”
Deputy McGrath is concerned that the legislation is a step towards a more restrictive society as he believes there are already sufficient laws in place to protect against hate crimes.”
The TD intends to make the legislation an election issue in the upcoming General Election now likely for December 6th at the latest.
