This new legislation introduces harsher penalties for crimes proven to be motivated by hatred or where hatred is demonstrated. Offences such as assault or property damage, when aggravated by hatred, will result in increased prison sentences. However, where hatred cannot be proven, individuals may still face charges for the underlying offence.

Speaking at the signing, Minister McEntee stated, “We are committed to eradicating hate-motivated crimes and protecting vulnerable communities. This legislation sends a clear message: targeting individuals because of their identity will result in prosecution for hate crimes."

“Until now, Ireland was one of the last EU countries without specific hate crime laws, despite An Garda Síochána recording hate-related crimes and an increase of 7.5% in such crimes in 2023, following a 29% rise the year prior. This legislation fills a significant gap in our laws and has broad public support. I am proud to enact it in full.”

The Act safeguards individuals targeted based on specific identity characteristics, including race, colour, nationality, religion, ethnic or national origin, descent, disability, gender, sex characteristics, and sexual orientation. It introduces hate crime classifications for existing offences, where such crimes are aggravated by hatred towards these protected traits.

Ireland has previously faced criticism from the Council of Europe and other human rights organizations for lacking statutory provisions against hate-aggravated offences.

Minister McEntee highlighted the development of the Act, which involved an extensive public consultation process, including engagement with individuals affected by hate speech and hate crimes. “Research shows that victims of hate-motivated crimes experience significantly greater distress and suffer more adverse mental and physical health outcomes compared to other victims,” she said.

The Prohibition of Incitement to Hatred Act 1989, which criminalizes incitement to hatred and hate speech, remains in force alongside the new legislation.