Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

We have no commitment from the Taoiseach that it will be done in time for the next election. Is that his ambition at least?

I am genuinely concerned about the open use of racist, sexist and other bigoted language on social media by fringe political groups and movements. I had a conversation with somebody who is regulating that for one of the platforms and he told me one would be shocked at what is going on. They appear to have become bolder in recent months. I believe there is a real fear that this toxic rhetoric will encourage violence against people.

In the last local elections, I was pleased to see candidates from our new community standing for a multiplicity of parties and as Independents, but the sad truth is that many of them faced relentless attack of a racist nature online.

Does the Taoiseach agree we need this legislation? Will he give a commitment now that he will have it enacted or seek to have it enacted in time for the next general election?

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