Philip Ruddock’s review into religious freedoms has wrapped up, with the recommendations yet to be disclosed to the public.  

The Australian’s Michael Sexton is wondering whether stronger religious protections and exemptions will result from the review, with the Israel Folau saga causing much concern about the fragility of freedom of speech.

“He’s an example of churches expressing a view that causes a problem under a lot of the legislation we have in Australia. It makes communicating material that is offensive and insulting, illegal,” says Mr Sexton.

“In the course of robust political debate, some people will on occasions be offended. The problem is, at the moment, they are able to bring legal proceedings under these pieces of legislation.”

“The question is should people be allowed to put forward a view, even though many members of the community would disagree with it and some would find it offensive?”

It is anticipated that the Ruddock inquiry will deal with the issue.

Philip Ruddock&rsquo;s review into religious freedoms has wrapped up, with the recommendations yet to be disclosed to the public.&nbsp;&nbsp;
The Australian&rsquo;s Michael Sexton is wondering whether stronger religious protections and exemptions will result from the review, with the Israel Folau saga causing much concern about the fragility of freedom of speech.
&ldquo;He&rsquo;s an example of churches expressing a view that causes a problem under a lot of the legislation we have in Australia. It makes communicating material that is offensive and insulting, illegal,&rdquo; says Mr Sexton.
&ldquo;In the course of robust political debate, some people will on occasions be offended. The problem is, at the moment, they are able to bring legal proceedings under these pieces of legislation.&rdquo;
&ldquo;The question is should people be allowed to put forward a view, even though many members of the community would disagree with it and some would find it offensive?&rdquo;
It is anticipated that the Ruddock inquiry will deal with the issue.

A fast-paced show, focusing on current events, social issues, sport and entertainment.

A fast-paced show, focusing on current events, social issues, sport and entertainment.

Advertisement