Hate crime legislation must be enacted and implemented as a matter of priority
A huge increase in hate crimes across the country is shocking but not surprising, according to Social Democrats Justice Spokesperson Catherine Murphy.
“Hate crimes, and hate related incidents, increased by nearly 30pc last year. Almost 600 incidents were recorded, nearly 200 more than in 2021.
“When people are targeted on the basis of their identity it sends a message to every other person in that community that they are not safe and they do not belong.
“We are one of very few Western democracies that do not have any legislation which targets the hate element of a crime.
“Hate crime legislation – the Criminal Justice (Incitement to Violence or Hatred and Hate Offences) Bill 2022 – must be enacted and implemented as a matter of priority.
“Doing so would send a message that there will be serious consequences for anyone who attacks and terrorises individuals and communities for who they are.
“The absence of hate crime legislation in Ireland to date, has sent the opposite message.
“The Government must also commit to a national action plan to combat the beliefs and attitudes which give rise to hate crimes. Without tackling the root causes of hate and prejudice, hate crime legislation will only fight half the battle.”
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