A shot has been fired across the bow of websites using pirated images or music by the coming implementation of the Copyright and Related Acts Bill.

The legislation makes it illegal to use pictures, text and audio materials on websites without ownership of the copyright of that material.

Of particular concern has been the increase in consumers downloading music from the Internet. Violators of the new law could face fines of up to £100,000 and up to five years in prison.

According to the Department of Enterprise Trade and Employment, which has responsibility for the Bill, it is currently at the report stage in the Seanad and will then go before the Dail. The Government hopes the legislation will be in place before the end of the year.