Simon Harris has called for prohibiting the use of social media by those under 16. Photograph: Conor Ó Mearáin / Collins Photo AgencyTánaiste and Fine Gael leader Simon Harris has said he believes “we’re on the verge of a public health emergency” when it comes to social media. “I think we’re on the verge of a public health emergency in terms of social media and the impact on young people in Ireland, Europe and across the world,” he said. “I think social media is almost experimenting with the minds and brains of young people and that can’t be tolerated.”Mr Harris said he believed Ireland needed to “bring in restrictions and prohibit the use of social media among people under a certain age”. Last week, he called for prohibiting the use of social media by those under 16, referencing the Data Protection Act 2018, which set the digital age of consent at 16.

Source: The Irish Times January 31, 2026 16:48 UTC