Defamation Bill Inquiry

Overview

The Defamation Bill was formally introduced to the Assembly on 7 June 2021 and, following its second reading on 14 September 2021, was referred to the Committee for Finance for the Committee Stage.  In order to inform its deliberations on the Bill, the Committee has launched a call for evidence.  Any organisation or individual may make a submission in respect of the Bill under the call for evidence.

The aim of the Bill is given as reforming the law of defamation in order to ensure that a fair balance is struck between the right to freedom of expression and the protection of reputation. The Bill makes a number of substantive changes to the law of defamation in Northern Ireland.

Why your views matter

The Committee receives regular input from large scale organisations.  This survey is open to them, but the Committee is also keen to hear from individuals and invites you to share links to this survey to anyone who might be interested.

What happens next

Following the closure of this call for evidence and views the Committee will consider all written and oral evidence before moving to deliberate on the Clauses of the Bill. The Committee will summarise its process in a report to the Assembly which may recommend amendments.