Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 26 September 2012
169. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she can initiate specific steps for children or their parents where there is a fear of or evidence of internet-grooming; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40888/12]
View answerIf any person has a concern about a child, this should be reported to the HSE Children and Family Service local Social Work duty service. If a child is in danger outside of office hours, the Gardaí should be contacted. This information, and the relevant contact details, are available on both my Department's website, www.dcya.gov.ie and the HSE website at www.hse.ie.
The Deputy will be aware that the Office for Internet Safety, which is an Executive Office of the Department of Justice and Equality, was established to take a lead responsibility for internet safety in Ireland, particularly as it relates to children. The Office for Internet Safety provides information on internet safety to parents and to children.
