However, she emphasized that she remains committed to advancing the hate crime aspect of the criminal justice legislation, despite some seeing this as a step back from her original pledge.

Speaking in Athlone, Minister McEntee announced plans to introduce amendments at the committee stage of the Criminal Justice (Incitement to Violence or Hatred and Hate Offences) Bill 2022 in the Seanad. She acknowledged that the “incitement to hatred” portion of the bill lacks consensus and will be addressed at a later date.

The Minister stated that over the summer, she discussed these proposed changes with the three coalition parties. She also reaffirmed her determination to enact hate crime legislation, saying that the bill sends a clear message: “If you attack someone, or commit a crime against a person or group solely because of their identity, skin colour, or origin, there will be a tougher, harsher sentence.”

The legislation allows for more severe penalties when hate is proven to be a motivating factor in a crime.

The bill has faced opposition from various groups, including backbenchers, opposition parties, free speech advocates, and tech billionaire Elon Musk. Critics argue that the bill is vague regarding the definition of hate speech, extends too broadly to include various categories, and poses potential risks to free speech.

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Paschal Donohoe, echoed McEntee’s sentiments at the Fine Gael Small Business and Enterprise Conference in Athlone. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to addressing the dangers of hate crime and stressed the importance of maintaining tolerance and diversity in society while curbing incitements to violence.

Minister Donohoe added that while there hasn’t been consensus on all aspects of the bill, the core elements will remain intact. He concluded by highlighting the need for stronger penalties for incitements to harm, which the Government believes are a growing threat in public discourse.