Artificial Intelligence Companion Services (Protection of Children) Bill 2026

Public bill · Private Member · Introduced

The Artificial Intelligence Companion Services (Protection of Children) Bill 2026 would prevent providers from making AI chatbots designed to simulate friendship, emotional support, romantic partnerships or other intimate relationships available to children under 16. Providers would have to use age-assurance measures, avoid targeting children with advertising or recommendations, and clearly identify chatbots as AI; Coimisiún na Meán could investigate breaches, issue compliance directions and apply penalties, while new online safety rules could set further requirements.

Formal long title

Bill entitled an Act to prohibit the making available of certain artificial intelligence companion services to children, to provide for age-assurance measures and to confer functions on Coimisiún na Meán; to amend the Online Safety and Media Regulation Act 2022; and to provide for related matters.

Last updated 30 September 2026