‘Robust steps’ to protect children online

Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald has insisted her department and agencies are taking “robust measures” to protect children using the internet.

She cited proposed offences, including using online technology to sexually exploit a child and causing a child to participate in abuse imagery.

Ms Fitzgerald has repeatedly indicated she plans to publish full legislation — which covers sexual offences generally — “later this year”. It is not yet clear when the new crimes will actually be enacted.