Children need to be trained in dealing with online harassment, says FF

Children need to be equipped and trained to deal with cyberbulling, Fianna Fáil TD Charlie McConalogue has said.

He said the death of 13-year-old Erin Gallagher was an “exceptionally tragic event” that had given the nation “a real jolt” in terms of the risks associated with the internet and modern technology.

Citing also the cases of Ciara Pugsley and Phoebe Prince, Mr McConalogue said the other side of technological progress was the need to ensure the right controls and guidance were in place to help children “manage the challenges” involved.