Mr. Shane McCarthy:

I have not read Laura. I understand my first role will be to read that book. I agree with Deputy Humphreys. Society has changed a great deal. The last Censorship of Publications Act was enacted in 1967. Undoubtedly, there have been major changes in every aspect of Irish society not least of which is the availability of technology. The banning of books will raise queries relating to availability and the possibility of ordering books over the Internet, if people so desire, as well as obtaining them through other electronic means. However, my understanding of the role at the moment is that there is a specific complaint in respect of a particular book. I take the view that due process means this complaint should be dealt with. Whatever changes come subsequently in the legislation will be a matter for the Oireachtas. I consider the role of the censorship board to review the book with the legislation that is currently in place as the complaint was made under the current legislation.