Ms Mary O'Connor:

No. This could be a naive comment but it is my own personal opinion. There needs to be a verification process for these platforms if people are going to be making those kinds of statements. If an individual feels they are right to make these statements, they should get some kind of a warning when they are about to press send regarding what the consequences will be if they do it. I read recently that social media companies are trying to assist and support Deputies who have been receiving abuse. That could be widened to the sports sector. Some individuals might bet on a certain sport and if I make a mistake as a sportsperson, I will get abuse because of that. That is the seriousness of the situation. It is difficult being a high-profile sports star on social media but it is also difficult being a local under-10 at a parish league game getting abuse. It is not nice out there at the moment.