Right to Freedom of Expression

Information

The Constitution (Bunreacht na hÉireann) guarantees your right in Ireland to freely express your convictions and opinions. However, it also asserts that the state should try to make sure that the radio, the press and the cinema are not used to undermine public order or morality or the authority of the state.

The Constitution also states that it is an offence to publish or utter blasphemous, seditious or indecent matter.

There are many limitations on your freedom of expression. For example, the Censorship of Publications Acts and the Censorship of Films Acts allow censorship of publications like books and films.

Your right to freedom of expression is set down in Article 40 of the Constitution.

You can view the full text of the Irish Constitution here.

Page updated: 19 March 2008

Categories

Social Welfare

Employment

Education and Training

Travel and Recreation

Housing

Moving Country

Money and Tax

Family and Relationships

Health

Justice

Consumer Affairs

Death and Bereavement

Government in Ireland

Environment

Find a Citizens Information Centre

Accessibility

Privacy

Contact us

Disclaimer

Re-use of Public Sector Information