Northern Ireland’s Education Minister Paul Givan has said he is “sympathetic” to the idea of restricting social media access for young people, warning that online platforms are having a growing negative impact on children and teenagers.
The minister made the comments while speaking about concerns surrounding the influence of social media on young people’s mental health, behaviour and wellbeing.
Givan said his views are shaped not only by his role in government but also by his own experience as a parent.
“I’m a parent of teenage children, I understand, like many parents out there, the detrimental impact that social media is having,” he said.
His remarks come amid increasing debate across the UK and Ireland about whether stronger rules should be introduced to limit how children access social media platforms.
Many platforms currently require users to be at least 13 years old, but critics argue that the rules are easily bypassed and that younger children are frequently able to create accounts without proper age verification.
Givan said the issue is becoming increasingly visible within schools, where teachers and staff are dealing with the consequences of online behaviour that often spills over into classrooms.
Educators have raised concerns about issues such as cyberbullying, online grooming, exposure to harmful content and the pressure created by constant social media use.
The minister suggested that a broader discussion is needed about whether stricter age limits or controls should be introduced to protect young people.
Across Europe and other parts of the world, governments are already examining possible restrictions on social media access for minors.
Supporters of tighter controls argue that the platforms can expose young people to harmful content, unrealistic expectations and online harassment.
Others have warned that outright bans could be difficult to enforce and that education and parental involvement remain key in helping children navigate the digital world safely.
Schools across Northern Ireland/The North have increasingly reported incidents where online disputes between pupils later lead to bullying or confrontation in person.
The issue has also raised concerns among safeguarding professionals, who warn that social media platforms can sometimes be used by individuals attempting to contact or groom young people.
Givan said he believes the debate must involve parents, schools, technology companies and government in order to find solutions that balance the benefits of digital communication with the need to protect children.
While no formal policy proposal has yet been announced, the minister said he understands why many parents are increasingly worried about the influence of social media on their children.
The discussion around regulating social media for young people is expected to continue as governments examine how technology is shaping childhood in the modern era.
Have a story you want to write yourself? Join Commentators Corner and write the news you want known - troubles/legacy or whatever is important to you.
Join Commentators CornerMore Stories - Click To View
The Largest Archive Of Troubles Media Ever Built
Explore thousands of documentaries, rare footage and banned material from the Troubles - preserved, organised and accessible in one place. Over 70,000 already follow ATL. Now go deeper.
Open The ATL Archive