Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)

As Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources I have overall responsibility for electronic communications policy, but I do not have responsibility with regard to the actions of persons conducting bullying or intimidation activities over electronic communications networks. I am conscious, however, that bullying in any form can be distressing, especially for children.

The Irish Cellular Industry Association has published A Parents Guide to Mobile Phones, which has some key safety tips for parents to help encourage the safe and responsible use of mobile phones by their children. This is useful as an important line of control rests with parents. Their supervisory role is key to safeguarding their children from the perils of abuse of communications technology.

Legislation is already in place to address the sending of indecent or offensive material by telephone and the harassment of people by telephone. Anyone who has information on these matters should bring it immediately to the attention of the Garda Síochána for criminal investigation.

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