Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 2 Apr 1996

Vol. 463 No. 6

Written Answers. - Racism-Xenophobia Legislation.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

69 Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Justice her views on the legislative changes needed to bring Ireland into line with the recently announced EU regulations on combating racism and xenophobia; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6409/96]

Minister for Justice (Mrs. Owen)

A text of an EU joint action to combat racism and xenophobia was discussed at the Justice and Home Affairs Council held on 19 March 1996. However, the text was not finalised because of reservations by some member states.

I hope that the text of the joint action can be formally adopted at the next scheduled Justice and Home Affairs Council in June 1996. Most of the behaviour identified in the present text is already covered by the Prohibition of Incitement to Hatred Act, 1989. However, it is likely that some amendments to our legislation will be required. Should that prove to be the case I can assure the Deputy that I will seek Government approval for the necessary amendments to the 1989 Act as soon as possible.