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Health Promotion Issues

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 5 December 2012

Wednesday, 5 December 2012

Questions (118)

Mary Mitchell O'Connor

Question:

118. Deputy Mary Mitchell O'Connor asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the media report that pro-anorexia websites are running starvation contests; the action he is taking to tackle this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54692/12]

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Written answers

The internet is an international and worldwide phenomenon which has no borders and no single organisation controlling it. Therefore efforts to combat harmful materials and activities on it can be hampered by the multiplicity of jurisdictions, differing legal systems and differing societal norms. Many of the pro-anorexia websites which the Deputy refers to may be hosted outside of this jurisdiction, and as such, the action that can be taken against them here is limited.

While acknowledging these difficulties, it should be emphasised that there is a self-regulatory framework in place for internet service providers in Ireland. The Internet Service Providers Association of Ireland Code of Practice and Ethics sets out clear guidelines and minimum standards in relation to handling complaints regarding suspected illegal material on-line. The Association is a member of the Government's Safer Internet Advisory Committee which advises the Office for Internet Safety, an Executive Office of the Department of Justice and Equality, on matters of internet safety. I should also mention that the HSE provides funding to BodyWhys, the national voluntary organisation supporting people affected by eating disorders. BodyWhys has in the past indicated that if persons are concerned that a young person is accessing such websites, they should guide them towards healthier, more constructive alternatives such as online support meetings, message boards, etc. offered by reputable organisations supporting people towards recovery from eating disorders.

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