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The Hate Crimes Bill currently before the Seanad has elements that should worry people whether or not they favour such legislation. In particular it defines a hate crime as occurring 'when it is perceived by the victim or any other person as being motivated by prejudice' 1/6
This would appear to allow an enhanced penalty for a crime in a situation where a person honestly, but without any reasonable justification, perceives an act as being motivated by prejudice. 2/6
there are other concerning elements 'homophobia' is defined as including 'negative an uninformed feelings towards homosexuality' where does this leave a well-informed homophobe? 3/6
and where does it leave those with mainstream religious views that regard homosexuality as a sin (views I disagree with but which they are entitled to) 4/6
The bill also covers 'anti-religious prejudice' are those who dislike organised religion not entitled to hold negative views of religion or of people who hold objectionable views on the basis of religion? 5/6
The Bill's sponsors no doubt have the best of intentions but as it stands it seems very loosely worded and a potential source of injustice 6/6
