Ireland South MEP Deirdre Clune, says Safer Internet Day (today, February 8th) is more important than ever in 2022.

Designed to promote the protection of children in the digital world, Safer Internet Day is marked in around 140 countries around the globe. This year’s theme is, ‘All fun and games? Exploring respect and relationships online’.

MEP Clune, a member of the European Parliament’s Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection says, “The last few years have seen many children spend an unprecedented amount of time on the internet, whether for schooling, keeping in touch with family and friends, or for entertainment. It is vital then that they are well protected, appropriately aware of any potential risk, and receive guidance on how to stay safe online. Figures show that one in three internet users are children and that 80% of eight to ten year olds own a smart device with online access. With this in mind, the European Parliament has in the past few weeks moved to create a safer digital space by voting to ban the use of targeted advertising to minors. There are many valuable resources to help young people as they explore the digital world. I recommend Parents and Guardians check out Webwise.ie, the Irish Internet Safety Awareness Centre which is co-financed by the European Union.”