James O'Connor
Ceist:165. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Justice the initiatives he plans to take regarding defamation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12857/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 20 March 2025
Ceisteanna (165)
Freagraí scríofa
In line with the Programme for Government, the Defamation (Amendment) Bill has been restored to the Order Paper. This is an important Bill that balances and safeguards the rights to freedom of expression with the protection of a person's good name and reputation, and the right of access to justice. It provides for a range of reforms to address the many concerns raised by stakeholders during the public consultation on the review of the Defamation Act 2009.The Bill aims to reduce legal costs and delays for all parties in defamation proceedings; to support easier access to justice both for those whose reputations are unfairly attacked and for those subject to unfounded defamation proceedings; and to provide enhanced protection for responsible public-interest journalism and public participation. Key reforms include:
- the abolition of juries in High Court defamation cases;
- new statutory defence for ‘retail defamation’ cases;
- new defence for broadcasters in relation to live broadcasting;
- a revised ‘offer of amends’ procedure; and
- alternative dispute resolution mechanism.
The Bill also provides for certain safeguards against the use of strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs) in the context of defamation. I am committed to progressing this Bill to enactment as a matter of priority and I look forward to bringing it back to the House for Committee Stage in due course.