Deputy Derek Keating has expressed his concerns about the proposed ACTA legislation that has recently been signed by the state. Speaking in Dáil Eireann earlier today, Deputy Keating acknowledged the confusion surrounding the proposition and argued to Minister Seán Sherlock that it could directly affect both small and large businesses in Ireland:

“This ACTA agreement is seen to be an Irish version of the controversial SOPA bill. Now, while the proposition aims to tackle counterfeited goods, startup and even longer term established online businsesses could potentially suffer”.

Deputy Keating then questioned if the Minister had a plan in place to “help” those affected by the changes to come. Expressing such concerns, Deputy Keating also added that the IT sector is one of many sectors that are crucial to the state:

“With such a requirement and dependancy on our tourism industry, our IT sector, on business and sport and even the social medium -- this is an area that where people feel we need protection and clarification”.

You can view the full debate below, which may include clarification with some of Deputy Sherlock’s points.