Ireland

[IE] Internet Content Advisory Group Established

IRIS 2014-4:1/22

Damien McCallig

School of Law, National University of Ireland, Galway

On 29 November 2013, the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources announced the establishment of an Internet Content Advisory Group. The Group consists of experts in the fields of child safety and online behaviour, as well as legal, technical and industry experts, and a student representative. It will consider emerging issues in the area of online content and its general impact on the lives of children and young people.

The Group has been asked to comment on the July 2013 report of the Joint Oireachtas Committee (Irish Parliament Committee) titled ‘Addressing the Growth of Social Media and tackling Cyberbullying’. They have also been asked to make specific recommendations to the Minister in relation to:

- whether the existing national regulatory and legislative frameworks around electronic communications, Internet governance and the sharing and accessing of content online remain relevant;

- whether other existing policy responses by the State remain sufficient in relation to dealing with any of these issues; and

- what the most appropriate relationship should be between Internet service providers, online service providers, the State and citizens in relation to accessing age-appropriate Internet content and in relation to bullying and harassment online.

The Group issued a consultation paper on Internet Content Governance and invited submissions from the general public. The paper focused upon a number of general areas including the public concerns in relation to bullying, harassment and access to age-inappropriate content. Existing regulatory and policy approaches were outlined and views were sought on their adequacy and the need for a State role in regulating Internet content. Public comment on the sufficiency of current awareness and education resources and supports for digital literacy and online safety were also sought.

The consultation process closed on 18 March 2014 and the submissions received are being considered by the Group in preparation of their report to the Minister. It is expected that the Group’s report will be delivered by 30 May 2014.