James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Shortly after the Government was formed, one of the first Bills to pass through the Houses was the Harassment, Harmful Communications and Related Offences Bill. As Chair of the justice committee I was delighted to prioritise its passage and ensure it got speedy progress and has since become law. I am sure the House will agree it is badly needed for cyberbullying and online harassment. Indeed, Coco's Law refers to the young lady who took her life as a result of such abuse, and the law was badly needed. However, I am beginning to get reports that when complainants present at Garda stations to report incidents, they are told that the law is "not really applicable yet". Will the Government ensure the Garda force has the resources, training, knowledge and wherewithal to enforce what is now the law of the land? It is a criminal law passed by the Oireachtas. We have done our job and the Government has done its job. If there are any gaps in terms of Garda enforcement, they must be addressed as a matter of urgency so that the law of the land can be implemented and these important protections can be safeguarded.

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