I propose to take Questions Nos. 1306 to 1309, inclusive, together.
The Action Plan for Online Safety was launched by An Taoiseach on 11 July last.
The Plan sets out actions across Government Departments and agencies that are being taken to protect children and adults in their online engagement in what is a particularly dynamic environment.
Six key Departments form a Sponsors’ Group. These are Education and Skills, Justice and Equality, Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Children and Youth Affairs, Health, Business, Enterprise and Innovation. The Group has a number of functions including driving implementation of the Action Plan in line with the agreed timelines: developing a framework for monitoring and reporting on implementation progress; and publishing bi-annual progress reports on Action Plan implementation on each Department’s Website.
The Department of Health leads on the development of online signposting tools for mental health supports; and implementation of Healthy Ireland. The Department, in conjunction with the HSE and its various service partners has a range of policies and initiatives to promote positive mental health and resilience, including those specifically targeted at young people. In addition, we are currently reviewing the Mental Health Act, 2001 and A Vision for Change. The issues referred to by the Deputies will be considered, as appropriate, by my Department in this wider context and as part of developing the Government's overall Action Plan.