Cyberbullying must be tackled

The time has now come for tough legislation regarding bullying in society, and cyberbullying in particular.

Cyberbullying appears to have become frighteningly prevalent, ranging from cruel bullying at school level to online campaigns designed to intimidate. Most recently a music act was shamefully prevented from performing in Israel.

Legislation as it currently stands, (including Department of Education School Guidelines which date from 1993), simply does not cater for the level and kind of bullying that individuals can be subjected to in this technological age.

In the absence of legislation, many schools simply do not know how to deal with cyberbullying and those involved in bullying.

On social media websites bullies appear to be able to operate with impunity, under the guise of anonymity.

Too often it is the victim who ends up being doubly wounded, by the initial act of bullying, and the lack of a readily-available remedy.

Maurice Dockrell BL

Glenomena Grove

Blackrock

Co Dublin