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Dáil
‹ Questions on Promised Legislation

Online bullying legislation

Summary

Deputy Howlin sought the status of promised legislation on online bullying and a digital safety commissioner. The Minister said he was not aware of a specific commitment but would revert, and noted ongoing anti-bullying and wellbeing work.

What is the status of the promised legislation to combat online bullying and harassment? The Minister will be aware of the report of the Law Reform Commission on harmful communications and digital safety. As Minister for Education and Skills, he is in a particular position to understand how damaging this whole issue is for young people in particular. The Law Reform Commission recommended the establishment of an online regulator - a digital safety commissioner. When will we see draft legislation in this regard? Is it a priority to deal with the whole area of harassment and online bullying?

Comment on this

I am not aware that specific promised legislation has been committed to on that, although I will get back to the Deputy. On the wider issue, I am acutely aware of online bullying as a source of particular distress. In the Department, we are reviewing our well-being programmes and our anti-bullying guidelines to make sure we properly use the resources available to maximum effect and that we have robust anti-bullying strategies in place.

Comment on this