Maginness – Young People Must Be Aware of the Dangers of the Internet

Tuesday 10 February 2009

SDLP North Belfast MLA Alban Maginness has today backed the Council of Europe’s ongoing campaign to tackle all forms of internet misuse.

Speaking after a visit to North-West Lifelong Learning, one of Northern Ireland's leading internet safety specialists, Mr Maginness said parents and children must be aware of the dangers of using the internet.

He said: "The internet has enormous positive potential for children to communicate and to share and develop ideas. Internet skills and literacy for children and parents are crucial for the World Wide Web to be used freely and safely.

"However the internet may also have dangers for children. That is why the Council of Europe works with its 47 member states and non-European countries to tackle all forms of misuse of the internet and make it safer for children to use. I fully back their campaign.

"It is very important that we educate our children and young people in order to raise awareness of the dangers of using the internet.

"The well-being and best interests of children on the internet are of extreme importance.

"Children may be at risk of bullying and harassment if they use social networking sites without being aware of safe practice. This is in addition to the ongoing threat from internet paedophiles and predators.

"Parents do not allow their children to speak or meet strangers in person and they should not let this happen online.

"It is important children remember some basic guideline while using the internet, namely to never disclose their phone number or address and to make sure they are supervised by an adult if they are meeting someone who has contacted them through a chatroom.

"Furthermore, parents must be aware of their role when monitoring the internet usage of their offspring.

"Computers should be kept in family rooms rather than bedrooms and should have reliable web patrolling software that will police and block unsuitable material.

"Where possible young children should not be allowed to set-up their own email accounts and parents ensure that they know the passwords so they can check who their children are communicating with.

"When online, children can be exposed to anyone or any type of material however, when used correctly the internet can be a great educational resource."

ENDS

Further information:
Alban Maginness: 07890 878955
Or SDLP Press Office 028 9052 1364