'Aye, those be slighting words against the Lord:' Ireland's blasphemy law (National Post)

EXCERPT:

On the first day of 2010 (note: not 1310), Ireland's new blasphemy law came into effect, making statements about the folly of religion punishable by a 25,000 euro fine. Specifically, the law forbids "publishing or uttering matter that is grossly abusive or insulting in relation to matters sacred by any religion." Ireland, yet again, has shown the world the toxic result of religious influence on the state. Fortunately, the Irish specialize in blasphemers as well as zealots; a group called Atheist Ireland is flouting the law by posting on its website 25 quotations selected intentionally to outrage religious sensibilities and daring the authorities to prosecute them. They chose a wide range of blasphemy, which was smart, because the new laws, ironically, are intended to promote tolerance. Blasphemy was already a crime in Irish law; the new legislation merely extends the right not to be offended to people of any faith at all.

Read more: http://www.nationalpost.com/life/story.html?id=2421571#ixzz0cH9zHhFv