Veritas ban: move to change the law

THERE is a need to change broadcasting legislation following the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland decision to disallow the most recent Veritas advert.

It is political correctness taken to the extreme to ban the advertising of items related to Christmas because they may have a link with a religious event or faith.

As long as the advertising of a religious product is done in a responsible manner and in a way that is not divisive or discriminatory, then it should be allowed for in broadcast legislation.

I have introduced an amendment to the new Broadcasting Bill that reflects the view of the majority of people who have absolutely no problem with responsible religious advertising.

Ireland is now a multicultural, tolerant country that should not require the banning of the kind of harmless advertising that Veritas had proposed.

Simon Coveney TD

6A Anglesea Street

Cork