Vol. 543 No. 5
129 Proinsias De Rossa asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress which has been made regarding the review of the Prohibition on Incitement to Racial, Religious and Non-National Hatred Act, 1989; the steps he has taken to address the growing number of racist websites; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27646/01]
As the Deputy is aware, I announced a review some time ago of the Prohibition of Incitement to Hatred Act, 1989, which prohibits both actions intended to stir up hatred and actions likely to stir up hatred. This review is being carried out in co-operation with the national consultative committee on racism and interculturalism. Submissions to the Department concerning the current operation of the Act and proposals for amendment of the legislation are being considered as part of the review. As all the submissions have yet to be received, I cannot at this time say when the review will be concluded and what, if any, legislation will follow from it. I would, however, hope to conclude the review as soon as possible.
In relation to racist websites, I am informed by the Garda authorities that the computer crime unit in the Garda Síochána have, after investigation, made contact with a number of Internet service providers, resulting in the removal of three illicit websites Irish Peoples Party, Irish Fascist League, Irish Fascist Party.
