David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senator for her remarks and for the opportunity to discuss this very important matter. Hate crime means that vulnerable groups and individuals are targeted simply for who they are. The impacts of hate crime and hate speech are especially serious because they have a ripple effect that spreads far beyond the individual victim. If not dealt with, this can lead to a divided society in which entire communities feel unsafe. The serious nature of this behaviour means we must be especially careful to ensure that the legislation in place to deal with it is robust. The work being undertaken in the Department will help ensure any reform introduced is effective and reflects best practice internationally. I look forward to debating the matter with Senators when the legislation comes before the House.

Research on hate crime in other jurisdictions is likely to be completed later this year. The public consultation is due to go live very soon and I welcome the Senator's call for others to engage in it. Departmental officials will then consider the outcome of this work to determine the best approach to legislating in Ireland.

We welcome the fifth report of the European Commission against Racism and Intolerance. In its report it highlights a number of positive developments in recent years. We will work to implement its recommendations, particularly the two priority recommendations on hate crime and Traveller accommodation.

When candidates use hate speech and hate crime in their canvassing, they are engaging in lazy politics. They are being populist and scapegoating others. This type of behaviour is shameful and I am glad that it has not taken hold or been successful here.