Censorship of Films in Ireland

Rules

Banning a film

A film can be certified as unfit for viewing (in other words, banned) because IFCO is of the opinion that the film is likly to cause harm to children, or is indecent, obscene or blasphemous, or that viewing it might be contrary to, or undermine public morality. IFCO may also rule that certain parts of a film must be removed before it can be certified for viewing. The Censor must also view and approve the advertising material connected to the film to ensure it is appropriate. A copy of the Certificate must be shown for at least 10 seconds immediately before the film is shown.

Censorship and private film clubs

Private film clubs in Ireland (e.g., the Irish Film Institute) are not obliged to seek classification for films that are shown only to their club members.

Film classifications currently in use

Irish film classifications are broadly similar to those in use in other countries. Film trailers are also classified and may only be shown with a film of a similarly suitable classification.

An overview of the current system of film classification for Ireland is as follows:

• G (General): The film is suitable for everyone, including young children
• PG (Parental Guidance): While the film may be watched by unaccompanied children, parental guidance is recommended as to its suitability for children under 12 years of age. The film may contain adult themes or concepts that parents may wish to be aware of. If it has a romantic theme, it might have some sexual scenes or very brief nudity. It might also have some violence or mild bad language.
• 12A: While the film is, in the opinion of IFCO, suitable only for people over 12 years of age, a person under that age may be admitted to see this film if he or she is accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• 15A: While the film is, in the opinion of IFCO, suitable only for people over 15 years of age, a person under that age may be admitted to see this film if he or she is accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• 16: Films classified in this category are considered to be suitable for persons of sixteen or over. Children under this age cannot be admitted to screenings. Violent content and depicition of violence may be stronger than in films designated 15A.
• Over 18: Only people over the age of 18 may attend a screening of this film. There will be adult themes and there may be explicit scenes of sex or violence. There may also be bad language, including strong sexual swear words.

Censorship of Films Appeal Board

A person may appeal a decision of IFCO to the Classification of Films Appeal Board. The Classification of Films Appeal Board has nine members who are appointed by the Minister for Justice and Equality. Any person can make an appeal against a refusal to certify a film or an appeal for a change in the classification of a film. The decision of the Appeal Board is final, but the film may be re-submitted to IFCO after seven years.

Offences and Penalties under the Censorship of Films Acts

There are a number of offences under the Censorship of Films Acts, including exhibiting a film without a certificate, failing to comply with the terms of a restricted certificate and displaying publicity material that has not been approved by IFCO.

It is also an offence in Ireland for a cinema to allow entry to a film by someone below the classified age. (In other words, if someone under 18 is allowed view a film for over 18's). If you see this happening, you should report the offence to your local Gardai and they will initiate proceedings under the Censorship of Films Acts.

The fines for breaches of the Acts are under review at present.

Records held by IFCO

Various registers, not all of which are computerised, are held by IFCO. The Register of Films gives basic information for each film and trailer examined, including the certification. The Cuts Register records details of cuts made in particular films and the Rejects Register gives details of prohibited films. The Appeal Board Register records details of appeals and decisions made by the Classification of Films Appeal Board. There is also an Accounts and Payments Register.

The above information may be examined at IFCO's Office. At present, no fee is charged for this service.