Debate contribution: Hate Crime Bill

Debate contribution by Mr Matthew O'Toole on 20 May 2024.

MLA: Mr Matthew O'Toole
Party at the time: Social Democratic and Labour Party
Date: 20 May 2024
Type: Debate contribution
Business: Oral Answers to Questions
Heading: Hate Crime Bill
Assembly identifier: Official Report component 4490850

Text

Thank you, Minister. Of course, we know that we have lost two years, but it is true to say that officials in your Department have been working on this since 2020, so it is not new to them. You were clear, some years ago, that we needed a stand-alone hate crime Bill. Last week, it was called the "victims and crime Bill", but it is now called the "victims of hate crime Bill", so it has taken on a new title but that is fine. Is it not the case that your officials have been working on this for four years? With respect, Minister, you campaigned loudly to get this job. People who need the legislation will be wondering what is taking so long and why we are not going to get a stand-alone hate crime Bill.

137 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.

Part of an exchange

This follow-up belongs to: Topical question AQT 291/22-27.

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