RADICAL new measures to tackle child pornography, including its use on the Internet, are to be introduced in the Dail within weeks.
The Government yesterday approved the drafting of legislation which will make it an offence to possess child pornography for personal use, punishable by up to three years in prison.
Under the proposals, to be included at Committee Stage of the Children's Bill which is currently before the Dail, trafficking in children for the purpose of their sexual exploitation will carry heavy prison sentences.
All manifestations of pornography - on the Internet, in films, videos, photographs, written or auditory forms, will be criminal offences with prison terms, on conviction, of three years to life.
Producing, printing, publishing, exporting, importing, selling or distributing child pornography will be covered.
The offence of "encouraging children to be used to produce pornography will also entail lengthy sentences.
The Children's Bill, which is expected to pass its Second Stage tomorrow, is designed to put the juvenile justice system on a modern, statutory footing. Among the 230 sections is a provision to raise the age of criminal responsibility from seven to 10.
The legislation also emphasises parental and family responsibility.
The Minister of State with responsibility for children's affairs, Mr Austin Currie, said last night that making possession of child pornography an offence in itself was "a major step forward". He was convinced it was necessary for the protection of children.
"Research shows that possession of child pornography is a good indicator that someone poses a threat to children," he added.
Confirming that she had received Government backing for new legislation, the Minister for Justice, Mrs Owen, said the proposals to protect children under the age of 17 from sexual exploitation and abuse took into account EU measures in this area.
Agreement was also reached yesterday on the establishment of an inter-departmental working group on the "illegal and harmful use of the Internet".
The Taoiseach, Mr Bruton, said the group would be chaired by a Department of Justice official and would comprise representatives from the public and private sectors.
The group is to hold its first meeting before the end of the month. Its brief includes child pornography and illegal use of the Internet.
The working group is expected to issue recommendations to Government in relation to the international aspects of the Internet.
Meanwhile, under the Licensing Bill, 1997, people with serious drug convictions will be prevented from acquiring or retaining licences for intoxicating liquor, or to run dancehalls or public music or singing events.
The Garda will also have enhanced powers under the law to enter unlicensed dances, including rave parties.
"These are important and practical steps in the ongoing fight against the scourges of child pornography and drug abuse," Mrs Owen said.