Internet censorship in Ireland is a controversial issue with the introduction of a graduated response policy in 2008 followed by an effort to block certain file sharing sites starting in February 2009.
Irish law provides for freedom of speech including for members of the press, and the government generally respects these rights in practice.
[7][8] According to a report published by solicitors McCann Fitzgerald this is the first implementation in Europe of the three strikes system that record companies are lobbying to bring on throughout:[9] IRMA who represent EMI, Sony Music Entertainment, Warner Bros. and Universal are seeking that Eircom along with all other major Irish ISPs block access to file sharing sites such as The Pirate Bay and Mininova.
These actions could impact on user privacy, damage the development of new internet services, and hurt Ireland's standing as an eCommerce hub.
"[13] Letters explaining the plans were delivered to Irish ISPs including Blacknight and Eircom on 13 February 2009, calling for them to participate in the block or face possible legal action.