494. Deputy Joanna Byrne asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport if the planned nationwide survey of children about their online experiences will include questions on gambling and gambling-related harm; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73587/25]

Patrick O'Donovan, Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport: Coimisiún na Meán's strategy statement 2025-2027 sets out how it is working towards, amongst other things, an online media landscape that upholds the rights, wellbeing and development of children and their safer engagement with content. With that in mind, my Department and An Coimisiún have been engaging with relevant stakeholders to explore the feasibility of implementing a survey in schools in 2026. The structure, format and content of the planned survey has yet to be decided but the views of relevant stakeholders will be taken into consideration in doing so.

Online safety for children will be a key priority for me during Ireland's EU Presidency, which will run from July to December 2026. As part of preparations for this role, my Department will be working with children and young people to ensure that their voices are heard and reflected in discussions around the topic which will into our six-month Presidency programme.