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The Action
They worked closely with their local Community Gardai and participated in Webwise Ireland’s Safer Internet day, during which they held workshops and information sessions for students in their school. They also produced informational and instructive bookmarks displaying information on the issue and suggested responses to messages received, as well as a range of fun and engaging activities to advise people on the correct actions to take if they receive unwanted images. Furthermore, the team contacted service providers such as snapchat and Facebook to promote the idea of making a generic response available – a simple message to let the sexter know that what they’re doing is wrong.
The team recognised the policy deficit and advocated for a change in the laws around sexting. The students felt that the current legislation around sexting is no longer fit for purpose as it dates from before young people had access to mobile devices. The law which currently applies defines sexting as child pornography and carries sentences that are not going to be applied and do not act as an effective deterrent. Former Minister Jan O’Sullivan worked with the students to sharpen their lobbying skills and the team have contacted many other TDs and ministers to further their objective.
