Comments by Deputy Brendan Smith at Garda Síochána Seminar on Coco’s Law on Friday 13th February:

“I compliment An Garda Síochána on organising this important Seminar and having representatives of Statutory Agencies, Voluntary Organisations and Second Level Schools participating.  It is absolutely essential that there is a greater awareness of these serious issues and the support that is there to help young people deal with difficulties arising from online bullying and harassment.

These challenges can only be dealt with effectively through collaboration across all agencies, both statutory and voluntary.  Everybody has a part to play in ensuring that young people and indeed people of all ages remain safe and free of intimidation and abuse.  Existing legislation must be implemented and the Minister for Justice, Jim O’Callaghan TD, has stated very clearly, following recent public debate about the creation and sharing of AI intimate images,  that further legislative measures will be introduced if such a need arises.  I know that Minister O’Callaghan is very committed to having effective laws and regulations in place.

The European Union and other like-minded countries must robustly address the whole issue of abuse, the spreading of misinformation and disinformation with the utmost urgency.  It is not acceptable and indeed it is ridiculous that people can have accounts on social media platforms with anonymity and behave in a despicable manner with their commentary.  It is beyond time for large social media companies to be reined in and held accountable for abuses.  This is a huge issue for society today and governments must be extremely vigilant and active in controlling such media in the best interests of the public”