Barry Ward (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

There is no basis whatsoever for that accusation. The definitions in this Bill specifically relate to the matters that are dealt with in this Bill. Different words are defined differently in various pieces of legislation because they are approached differently. They do not always mean the same thing in different contexts. That is a normal part of legislative practice. It is not unusual. I could give Senator Mullen a list of other words that apply differently in various pieces of legislation – from "public place" to "mechanically propelled vehicle" to "tax". Every one of them has different meanings. Let us not try to muddy the waters further.

Ironically, Senator Mullen talked about cancel culture, and how this Bill is somehow going to promote that. Once again, this is a complete and utter misconception that he has perpetrated time and time again. The Bill is not about being offended or taking offence. The Bill does not outlaw people being offensive.