THE GOVERNMENT IS to outline plans later today confirming it will introduce age restrictions on the use of social media for teenagers.

It’s understood a memo being brought to Cabinet will concentrate the measure on under 16s, with Ireland set to copy similar moves made by Australia and France.

This plan will see a pilot of an age verification tool take place in the first half of this year with young people involved in the trial to assess how it will work in practice.

Ministers will also consider a new digital and AI strategy with a focus on online safety among other areas.

In addition, the plan will look at keeping legislation under review to address the advent of AI and technologies as tools to intimidate or harass individuals.

There is also an expectation that the government will engage with European Commission to ensure the list of prohibited practices under the EU’s AI legislation remains fit for purpose in the context of those growing capabilities of AI.

The Irish government will also support Coimisiún na Meán in leading an information and awareness campaign, to support public understanding on reporting of harmful and illegal content, as well as the role of Coimisiún na Meán in relation to online safety.

Tánaiste Simon Harris said last week that the government was “clearly hearing” from parents that they want action when it comes to children on social media, after a poll showed that three-quarters of those surveyed were in favour of the restriction.

It is understood the plan will confirm Ireland’s intention to introduce legislation here as a priority for the European Presidency.

While the preference is to move at a European level with other EU member states, Irish ministers want to take action regardless.