Teens share thoughts on cyber safety EGG HUNTERS
YOUNG people from Wicklow contributed to the preparation of a report on cyber security for children and young adults.
The report of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Children and Youth Affairs recommends putting a clear regulatory framework and governance structure in place to ensure that children and young people are adequately protected when they are online. Alice O’Donnell, Greystones local area rep for Fine Gael, commended the contribution of Wicklow Comhairle na nÓg in the process.
‘Young people from Wicklow played an important role in ensuring that the voice of our children and young adults was heard as part of the consultation process,’ she said. ‘Their work included conducting a survey, hosting workshops and developing a charter which is accessible to young people. The charter is available to schools and youth groups in the county.’
They also made a presentation to the Committee on children and Youth Affairs.
‘The amount of time that our young people spend online is increasing rapidly and we need to ensure that they can access the best that the internet can offer while being protected from potential harm and exploitation,’ said Ms O’Donnell.
Some of the proposals include a cyber safety programme in schools, and that social media platforms strengthen their responsibility to their youngest users. Parents need to be educated and supported so that they feel confident enough to talk to their children about cyber safety. Resources such as WebWise are very useful in this regard.
The establishment of an office of a Digital Safety Commissioner is recommended in the report and a bill is currently before the Dáil on this issue.