Sir, – The offence of blasphemy consists of uttering material “grossly abusive or insulting in relation to matters held sacred by any religion”, when the intent and result is “outrage among a substantial number of the adherents of that religion”.
How does removing this offence from our Constitution, whether uttered or printed, make us a better or more progressive nation?
Any kind of sacrilege is abhorrent to any, and all religions, and should certainly be banned.
The use of blasphemy is not an authentic forum for “freedom of speech” and therefore such an offence should, I believe, remain in the Constitution.
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Let us reflect deeply before taking such a regressive step if we are to pass on respect for the sacred to this and future generations. – Yours, etc,
AISLING BASTIBLE,
Clontarf,
Dublin 3.