Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have one or two questions before we wrap up. Children’s use of technology has become much more prevalent and there are many different social media platforms. I have heard frightening stories of children in fourth and fifth class using Snapchat, Facebook and many other platforms. One question I have asked every guest before the committee in recent weeks relates to how to educate parents and get into their minds. A steady stream at all the meetings suggests that often the parents who need to be got to are the ones who will not listen, attend meetings, inform themselves, communicate with the school or get involved in it.

The million dollar question is how to get those parents involved. How should we communicate with them? How can we get a commitment from them? How can we inform them of the dangers of social media? Dr. Foody spoke about parents' sense of responsibility. Everyone who brings a child into the world has a responsibility to do their best for that child. Many parents are not doing their best for their children while allowing them on some of the terrible social media platforms that are meant for adults. Children as young as nine, ten, 11 and 12 are using them. They are not just using them after school, but sometimes up to 2 a.m. or 3 a.m. Parents are allowing their children on these dangerous social media platforms until that hour of the morning unsupervised. They do not know whom they are communicating with.

If the witnesses had responsibility in the Department of Education tomorrow, what additional supports would they give to primary and post-primary schools to assist the principals and teachers to support the pupils through the bullying and other difficulties they experience?