CURRENT LEGAL ARTICLES

In Ireland, harassment is addressed under the country’s laws. Harassment can take various forms, including physical, verbal, or online actions intended to cause distress, fear, or alarm to another person. The laws related to harassment in Ireland aim to protect individuals from unwanted and offensive behaviour and provide avenues for legal recourse.  The primary legislation addressing harassment in Ireland is the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act 1997. Section 10 of this Act deals explicitly with harassment and provides a legal framework for addressing such behaviour. According to this section, a person commits an offence of harassment if they engage in a course of conduct that causes another person to suffer severe alarm or distress. The term “course of conduct” refers to repeated actions or behaviour involving various forms of communication, such as phone calls, messages, emails, or physical approaches. It can also include actions that may cause fear or distress, such as stalking or surveillance.  If someone believes they are being harassed, they can report the matter to the Gardaí (Irish police). The police may investigate the complaint and, if appropriate, take legal action against the alleged harasser. If convicted, the harasser may face penalties, including fines and imprisonment.  Additionally, the Prohibition of Incitement to Hatred Act 1989 addresses harassment that involves incitement to hatred based on race, religion, nationality, sexual orientation, or membership in a particular social group. This Act criminalises actions intended or likely to stir up hatred against a specific group of people. 

1. Definition: Harassment is defined as that which causes alarm, distress, or harm to another person.
2. Offences: The law covers actions such as following someone, persistently making unwanted communications, or persistently watching or besetting the residence, place of work, or business of another person.
3. Penalties: A person found guilty of harassment can face fines and imprisonment.
4. Safety Orders and Protection Orders: Courts can issue safety or protection orders to protect victims from harassment. These orders can impose restrictions on the harasser’s behaviour.
5. Online Harassment: The law applies to online harassment, including cyberbullying and other forms of online stalking.
6. Civil Remedies: Victims of harassment can pursue civil remedies through the courts, seeking damages for the harm they’ve suffered.

Harassment can lead to imprisonment for up to seven years per the legal consequences. Feel free to let me know if you need any more help. Laws can change over time, so please call the office to seek professional legal advice for the most up-to-date information regarding harassment laws. 0214708570 info@greensolcitors.ie 

 The Online Safety and Media Regulation Act 2022 

The Online Safety and Media Regulation Act 2022 section 45 provides for a new Part 8A, amending the Principal Act, to provide for online safety. Section 139T(1)(c) provides that the Media Commission may serve a notice under section 139ZZD(1) on a relevant platform to take down content on the subject of a complaint. 

Sections 1-31 of the Act have commenced as of 15th March 2023 under the Online Safety and Media Regulation Act 2022 (Commencement) Order 2023 (S.I. No. 71 of 2023).

DISCLAIMER

THIS ARTICLE DOES NOT FORM LEGAL ADVICE IN ANY SHAPE OR FORM 

It’s important to note that the legal landscape may change over time, so it’s essential to consult the most recent sources and consult with legal professionals if you require precise, up-to-date information regarding harassment laws in Ireland.