Ivor Callely (Dublin North Central, Fianna Fail)
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Question 322: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the mechanisms in place to protect children from offensive, age inappropriate or dangerous multimedia activities that are easily accessible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42364/06]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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The Deputy is interested in the protection of children from the inappropriate use of multimedia activities, which is a very broad and encompassing term, but I understand his interest relates particularly to the internet, video games and mobile phones.

I have no function in relation to malevolent internet activities or video games — these areas come under the remit of my colleague the Minister for Justice, Equality & law reform.

Obviously the role of parents in these matters cannot be emphasised enough, and their supervision is key.

In so far as mobile phones are concerned, the Deputy may be aware that the Irish Cellular Industry Association (ICIA), an alliance of mobile operators and handset manufacturers, has taken many steps to promote the safe and responsible use of mobile phones, including publishing a Parent's Guide to Mobile Phones, which aims to inform parents of some key safety tips that will encourage responsible and secure use of mobile phones by their children.