Combatting Cyberbullying

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 January 2018

Tuesday, 23 January 2018

Questions (563)

Róisín Shortall

Question:

563. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs further to Parliamentary Question No. 38 of 28 November 2017, if the issue of loot boxes and other in-app purchases in video games with a Pan European Game Information rating of under 18 years of age can be included in the discussions her departmental officials have undertaken or will undertake in relation to the protection of children online from a cross-Governmental perspective. [3391/18]

Written answers

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs

I am concerned about the need to protect children from online abuse and other dangers from which they need protection. I believe these issues require a whole of government approach and my Department is working with other relevant Departments in this regard. 

My Department has no remit in relation to the regulation of video games or online technologies. The classification of video games and regulations relating to gambling, are within the remit of my colleague the Minister for Justice and Equality.