New bill to allow viewing of porn during impeachment

Emergency legislation is due to be introduced in the Dáil today which will prevent TDs and senators facing criminal charges as a result of fulfilling their constitutional functions during the impeachment process of Judge Brian Curtin.

The legislation aims to amend the Child Trafficking and Pornography Act 1998, according to Government Chief Whip Mary Hanafin.

The amendment will effectively exempt Oireachtas members from being prosecuted for the possession, distribution, printing, publication or sharing of child pornography in the performance of their constitutional functions under Article 35.

The legislation could be fast-tracked through the Dáil without significant delays.

The Government will also introduce legislation tomorrow to compel serving judges to appear before an Oireachtas committee.