Written answers

Wednesday, 18 September 2013

Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

Internet Safety Issues

Photo of Denis NaughtenDenis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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799. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will ensure that Internet service providers require customers to make an active choice regarding filtering adult content when they begin using services similar to UK plans; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37784/13]

Photo of Terence FlanaganTerence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Independent)
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826. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the steps he is taking to ensure that children's access to adult internet sites is being restricted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38630/13]

Photo of Pat RabbittePat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 799 and 826 together.

The protection of children insofar as this issue is concerned is paramount and there are a number of initiatives already in place in this respect, notably through the Department of Education’s resources and support for parents and children as well as the various initiatives carried out by the Office for Internet Safety. It is also essential that children, young people and parents are educated as to the risks that can be found online, that parents and teachers are supported in explaining these issues to children and that the optimal technical solution to protect children is identified. In this regard, there are a range of tools available online to assist parents in managing internet access.

The industry also shares in the responsibility to take all reasonable steps to protect children and I have met the Internet Services providers (ISPs) to explore these issues in detail. The ISPs also have a variety of measures and resources already in place, with software and other tools available to help parents ensure online safety for their children.

I remain to be convinced that a blanket or ‘default on’ blocker such as that proposed in the UK would achieve the desired ends and whether, in fact, it is open to Governments to impose a blanket or general obligation of this nature on ISPs.

What we need to ensure is that the State responds appropriately and in a manner which is effective, workable and respects the rights of individuals. Work is continuing to identify measures which might prove effective. I have met with the ISPs earlier this Summer to discuss this issue and further meetings will be held by my Department with the ISPs in the near future. While there are a number of other difficulties with it, the UK approach may have lessons for us. The Government will keep a close eye on what happens but, for the moment, it seems that the solution will involve a multi-faceted effort by Government, industry, educators and, most importantly, parents.

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