From the first of this month, a new Irish blasphemy law became operational, and a campaign has begun to have it repealed.
Blasphemy is now a crime punishable by a €25,000 fine.
The new law defines blasphemy as publishing or uttering matter that is grossly abusive or insulting in relation to matters held sacred by any religion, thereby intentionally causing outrage among a substantial number of adherents of that religion.
Blasphemy laws are unjust... in a civilised society, people have a right to to express and to hear ideas about religion even if other people find those ideas to be outrageous.
Thankfully, in March 2008, the common law offences of blasphemy and blasphemous libel was abolished in England and Wales.
However, the struggle for enlightenment continues with the forces of regression and repression ever striking back forcefully.
In this I believe we must support our friends across the Irish Sea.
I would urge everyone to have a look at this site (http://blasphemy.ie/2010/01/01/atheist-ireland-publishes-25-blasphemous-quotes).
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