New copyright law could damage our IT industry
The reports in recent days - notably on Silicon Republic - that the outgoing Government is to sign into law a provision granting judges the power to injunct Internet Service Providers in breach of copyright laws are disturbing.
It looks like they’re legislating for the ‘three strikes and you’re out rule’ in the last days of the administration.
If this is the case, then I would urge Minister Hanafin not to sign this Statutory Instrument and to consult carefully with the IT industry, telecoms providers and the Department of Communications before there are any further moves.
Our digitally traded sector is a €25bn industry currently employing over 73,000 people. It is the space where Ireland has the greatest potential for growth. But the greatest threat to this growth would be an overly legalistic approach to internet freedom and copyright.
This is sensitive policy that we need to get right. It has to be in tune with Europe and it cannot hurt our growing digital industry.
The Government cannot perform this legislative sleight of hand on the eve of polling. It would be a slapdash response that could jeopardise jobs and our future recovery. Don’t sign the law.
