Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The purpose of this morning's session is to hear the views of the National Anti-Bullying Coalition on abuse on social media, including challenges posed by cyberbullying and online harassment. Social media is changing the way many of our citizens interact with one another and we feel it is important that the committee hears about the various facets of this topic, particularly in light of the disquiet expressed in some quarters that there are no curbs on irresponsible use of these channels. The committee has already heard the views of the Minister, Deputy Rabbitte, the Office of Internet Safety and the primary social media networks, namely, Facebook and Twitter. We will also hear from YouTube and Mr. T. J. McIntyre of Digital Rights Ireland and take submissions in writing via social media channels from interested groups or individuals. At the end of this process we propose to publish a report and make recommendations to the Houses.

On behalf of the committee I welcome Mr. Seán Fallon, Mr. Colin Larkin and Mr. Paul C. Dwyer of the National Anti-Bullying Coalition. I now wish to draw the witnesses' attention to the fact that, by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to this committee. However, if witnesses are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence in relation to particular matters and continue to do so, they are entitled thereafter only to qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. Witnesses are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given.

They are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise nor make any charges against a person, persons, or entity, by name or in such a way as to make him, her, or it, identifiable. I advise that any submission or opening statement submitted to the committee will be published on the committee's website after the meeting.

I remind Members of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I invite Mr. Seán Fallon to make his opening statement and he has ten minutes in which to do so.