Barry Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the role he can play in cyberbullying; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4742/13]

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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The Office of Internet Safety has been established by the Government to take lead responsibility for Internet safety in Ireland, particularly as it relates to children. This Office operates under the aegis of the Minister for Justice and Equality. The Office also aims at building linkages and cohesion between all Departments and Agencies to ensure that the State provides the best possible protection for the community and promotes Internet safety. I also understand the Department of Education and Skills has just recently published an action plan on addressing certain cyber issues, including specific measures on cyber-bullying. I welcome this initiative and hope that this will assist in addressing the challenges associated with cyber bullying.

My Department has developed a website called to promote best practice in relation to many issues arising from the use of the Internet. This campaign, which was developed with industry, does provide some information in relation to use of ICT by children. The Department has also engaged in a number of EU initiatives on this subject, including Council Conclusions on the protection of children in the digital world in 2011, and continues to play an important role in discussions in the Council of Europe. While my Department does not lead on the specific issue of cyber bullying, it is available to assist in any initiative taken forward by the other Departments and continues to engage across all Departments in issues relating to the use of the Internet and ICT generally.