Michael D'Arcy (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I raise the issue of abuse, specifically cyber abuse. Over Christmas a clip posted on YouTube came to my attention. It is commonly known as the KPMG girl clip. A young girl who clearly had had too much to drink was being goaded by a bunch of fellows. It was filmed on an iPhone and posted on YouTube for the sole purpose of demeaning her. The fellows abused the girl in this instance. She was obviously intoxicated. I am disappointed that I even have to raise the matter because I am giving fuel to the story. When somebody is being filmed, if he or she is shown in a negative light, his or her consent should be required before the piece can be posted to the Internet. Otherwise it is an invasion of privacy. I call on the Leader to arrange a debate with the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources on the matter. I do not know this girl or her family, but I hope she has good familial support because we are speaking about the issue of teenage suicide.

On too many occasions, suicide is the worst-case scenario when pressure like this builds up and affects young people. I think it is important. This country should lead the world in regulating the Internet. As we move onto next-stage broadband, 4G broadband will be available practically everywhere. I really feel annoyed that this young girl was abused by fellows who are getting away with this scot free. They were the lowlifes in this incident. We certainly need to do something about it. I am not sure who said earlier that we have done nothing about suicide other than talk about it. It is time for some action.