Clarity

It was a surprise to see senator Conroy on Q&A last night. I think it was a very brave move considering the turmoil he's created in regards to the compulsory internet filter.

What was more of a surprise was my reaction by the end of the program! He pretty much summed up what i suspected; people have blown the scheme way out of proportion, and that the sensational claims have no factual basis.

In some ways i was very disappointed in the scheme in the first place. I don't think its the responsibility on the Government to enforce such restraints, but then again, it's their responsibility to do what it can to protect people that are unable to do so themselves such as children.

It was reassuring to know that the scheme is very much in a trial phase. And that, even after these trials, nothing is final and if the scheme falls over, they wont continue with it.

I say that if the filter does significantly slow the net, then of course they wont go through with it. But it seems it is part of a feasibility study to see if a number of systems, brought together, can make a difference and improve the safety of the net.

For all those out there saying "OMG! they can't censor the net! what about freedom of speech!?" well i have news for you: stop being a moron and actually look into what exactly you are saying...the filter is not designed to filter political content nor block peoples views...it is designed to block content that is ALREADY regulated by the ACMA. ie. content that is already considered inappropriate. content that is already classified but has skipped such classification because of the nature of the internet.

If you think that freedom of speech is an issue here, it's highly likely that you are a 1st year Arts student who after a few weeks of studying sociology, think you are the almightly expert on the topic. Either that or an easily convinced and simple minded fool who is likely to join your local universities Communist Socialist group.

If none of the above applies, then grow up and act your age. Use some common sense, and do some research before blurting out sensationalist and unfounded claims. Even just an hour of research will show you what the goals and objectives are of the scheme.