Seanad debates

Tuesday, 26 April 2022

Online Safety and Media Regulation Bill 2022: Committee Stage

 

2:30 pm

Photo of Malcolm ByrneMalcolm Byrne (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I do not disagree with Senator Ruane. Our amendment No. 25, proposes simply adding the phrase "to digital and media literacy generally,” and is intended to capture the same thing particularly because the relevant paragraph specifies"in relation to matters connected with its functions". We are trying to broaden it to cover areas of digital and media literacy more widely. There is a fear that this provision might be interpreted very narrowly around specific functions of the commission, whereas we see it as having a broader role. It would be sensible to consider a combination of the two proposed amendments. There is a very important regulatory role for the commission but another key element is for it to be engaged in digital media literacy in all its forms in promoting online safety. Therefore it is essential that the subsection about its purpose is as strong as possible.

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