Donegal’s Independent Senator Eileen Flynn is advocating for the replacement of the term “child pornography” with “child sexual abuse material” in Irish law.
Senators will vote tomorrow on the Child Trafficking and Child Sexual Exploitation Material (Amendment) Bill 2022, which includes the proposed terminology change.
Senators Eileen Flynn, Frances Black, Alice-Mary Higgins, and Lynn Ruane of the Civil Engagement Group (CEG), who introduced the amendment, argue that the current language obscures the exploitation involved and retraumatizes survivors.
Senator Flynn explained, “Language shapes reality. Using terms like ‘child pornography’ implies consent that simply doesn’t exist. This amendment is about accurately naming these crimes: exploitation and abuse of children. We have a responsibility to ensure our language reflects the true harm caused. It’s time to be precise. Accurate terminology influences how these crimes are perceived, prosecuted, and how survivors can heal.”
The Rape Crisis Network Ireland has voiced its support for the amendments, stating, “The devastating traumatic impact of child sexual abuse material should not be trivialised by comparing its creation and use to adult entertainment. We welcome these changes and commend the CEG for their advocacy in bringing this Bill forward.”
Donegal Senator campaigning to change legal terminology for child sexual abuse material was last modified: June 10th, 2025 by
