Simon Harris: Act Now to Protect Children from Social Media

Simon Harris sets out a clear position: social media access for under-16s must be restricted to protect mental health and childhood. He says Ireland will press for EU action during its Presidency and will act nationally if pan-European agreement is not possible, stressing urgency.

What he said

Simon Harris warned that social media algorithms are effectively experimenting on young brains and argued it is essential to protect the mental health and well-being of young people. He insisted policymakers must give children back their childhood and move from words to action.

European coordination and national readiness

Harris welcomed the opportunity to seek coordinated action during Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the European Union, but made clear that if Europe does not move fast enough, Ireland must implement protections at home. He presented this as a cross-government priority for Fine Gael and the Government.

Why it matters

The speech links growing concern about adolescent mental health to the design and incentives of social platforms, framing restrictions for under-16s as both a health and societal imperative. Harris emphasised the moral duty to act where algorithms harm young minds.

Political consequences

By tying the issue to the EU Presidency and a firm government commitment, Harris signals a readiness to pursue regulation at both European and national levels. He framed urgency as the reason for immediate policy focus and follow-up action.