Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 November 2014
558. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will provide an update on the activities of the Internet content advisory group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43274/14]
View answerThe Internet Content Governance Advisory Group (ICGAG) was formed in December 2013 to provide my Department with expert, independent advice in forming legislative, policy and regulatory recommendations to Government on a range of internet content governance issues for which responsibility is spread across a number of Government Departments. The Group conducted a public consultation on the emerging issues arising from widespread access to online content and its impact on society as a whole, taking particular account of issues of online safety arising from children and young people’s use of the Internet. 59 responses were received during this period from citizens, industry, not for profit organisations and representative groups. The Group then used these responses to inform their policy recommendations. The Group also met with a number of the major international companies based in Ireland who operate in this space.
The Report of the ICGAG was approved by Government and published on 24th June. It contains 30 structural, legislative and administrative recommendations, the responsibility for which fall across a number of different Departments.
Following the publication of the ICGAG Report, a cross departmental implementation group was established. This implementation group is chaired by DCENR and comprises representatives from the Department of Health, Department of Children and Youth Affairs, Department of Justice (Office of Internet Safety) and the Department of Education. The Group have held several meetings to date and will conclude their work and submit a report to me which I will bring to Cabinet following consideration.
