Sinn Féin TD for Dublin South West Seán Crowe has said that there must be a clamp down ever-growing problem on online harassment and bullying.

Speaking after supporting the Harassment and Harmful Communications Bill in the Dáil this evening, Teachta Crowe said:

“I have unfortunately dealt with a number of these type of cases down through the years. Technological developments have made it easier to share doctored images or malicious messages. The consensus across all parties in the Oireachtas is that we need to do more.

“I don’t understand the mindset of an individual that goes out to purposely hurt or harm an individual, but this behaviour is becoming more common and we have seen tragic results in some cases. People have taken their lives over incessant and cruel abuse that they do not invite and cannot stop.

“This legislation won’t eradicate or stop overnight this type of behaviour, but it might make them think again as it will be a criminal offence. It is regrettable that we have had to bring in legislation to deal with this problem but hopefully it is the first step in a wider conversation to deal with this problem once and for all.”