Irish Examiner view: Progress of Defamation Bill falls short of gold standard

There is now doubt over whether the long-awaited and much-needed legislation will make it over the finishing line before a general election is called

Tánaiste Micheál Martin and Justice Minister Helen McEntee at Friday's media briefing after the Government approved the publication of the Defamation (Amendment) Bill 2024. Picture: Leon Farrell/RollingNews

As this is the season for expressions of athletic endeavour, we think it is prudent to wait to see whether the plans to reform Ireland’s defamation law stagger over the finishing line some time this autumn. And then we will give them a bronze medal.

Certainly, there are some matters to celebrate. It is welcome that the Defamation (Amendment) Bill 2024 will introduce protection against strategic lawsuit against public participation (slapp) cases.