'GET with IT!' Guide Hopes To Counter Cyberbullying

The Minister for Justice, Equality & Law Reform, Dermot Ahern T.D. has this week launched the fourth booklet in the GET with IT! series, A guide to cyberbullying.

This booklet offers measured and practical advice on cyberbullying and is intended to increase awareness of all aspects of cyberbullying - how to identify it, how to prevent it, and how to respond before things escalate.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Ahern said: "I wish to acknowledge the role of the National Centre for Technology in Education and the childrens' charity Barnardos in producing the content of this booklet and the Expert Review Group convened by the Office for Internet Safety to review the content. I also want to express my appreciation to O2 for their sponsorship of the printing costs of the publication.

"Technology opens up a world of opportunities for young people, but it also presents hazards. 

"Cyberbullying is a particularly nasty consequence of technological development.  It is an insidious form of bullying.

"Cyberbullying can happen any time and any place and for many children and young people, home is no longer a safe haven from bullying. 

"Bullying via the new technologies can potentially continue invisible to all but the victim and the perpetrator."

The Minister has recently approved the membership of the Internet Safety Advisory Council whose role will be to advise the Office for Internet Safety (OIS). 

The Advisory Council is drawn from representatives of the key stake holders in the statutory, industry and community sectors, and will support the work of the OIS by providing expert advice and analysis and by identifying emerging areas of concern.

In conclusion, the Minister said: "The growth in the use of the Internet, including the use of social-networking sites by young people is a key concern for parents today.

"Understandably, parents want to protect their children and reduce the risk they are exposed to, from whatever source. 

"That is why this booklet will be of assistance and is designed to educate and assist parents and others interested in children's welfare in understanding cyberbullying and reducing the risk of cyberbullying."