Irish Regulators Unite to Fortify Digital Safety and Data Privacy for Young Users

In a landmark move for digital governance, Ireland’s Data Protection Commission (DPC) and Coimisiún na Meán have solidified a partnership aimed at harmonizing online regulation, with a special emphasis on protecting children in digital environments. The cooperation agreement, signed on 16 October 2025 by key commissioners from both bodies, marks a significant step toward enhancing regulatory consistency and safeguarding vulnerable users across Ireland’s evolving media landscape.

A Collaborative Framework for Digital Safety

The newly inked agreement establishes a structured framework for the DPC, Ireland’s data privacy watchdog, and Coimisiún na Meán, the national media regulator, to work in close coordination. This collaboration will involve regular engagement, information sharing, and joint initiatives to address the intersection of data protection and online safety. By pooling their expertise, the agencies aim to eliminate regulatory gaps and ensure that digital services operate within a clear, consistent legal framework.

Commissioners Des Hogan, Dale Sunderland, and the recently appointed Niamh Sweeney represented the DPC at the signing, while Coimisiún na Meán was represented by Online Safety Commissioner Niamh Hodnett and Digital Services Commissioner John Evans. Their joint statement underscores a shared commitment to advancing the safety and privacy of all users, with children identified as a priority group deserving specific protection.

Focus on Children’s Rights and Safety Online

Central to this partnership is the agencies’ dedication to creating a safer online experience for children. The DPC’s commissioners emphasized that “children merit specific protection in all facets of life, and the online world is no exception.” They highlighted the importance of ensuring that children’s personal data is used safely, responsibly, and always in their best interests. This approach aligns with growing global concerns about how digital platforms handle young users’ information and exposure to online risks.

Coimisiún na Meán and the DPC have outlined plans to empower children and their guardians through information and education, enabling them to make safer choices online. The agencies also intend to support online services in complying with their legal obligations, providing clarity on how data protection and online safety requirements intersect. This proactive stance is expected to influence how platforms design age-appropriate experiences and implement safety-by-design principles from the outset.

Broader Implications for Digital Regulation

This collaboration reflects a broader trend of regulatory bodies adapting to the complexities of the digital age. As international pressures mount on various fronts, including technology and trade, Ireland’s initiative demonstrates a focused effort to strengthen domestic regulatory frameworks. The partnership may also serve as a model for other jurisdictions grappling with similar challenges in balancing innovation with user protection.

Moreover, the timing of this agreement coincides with increased scrutiny of digital services globally. For instance, recent developments in tech investments and startups highlight the rapid expansion of digital ecosystems, underscoring the need for robust oversight. Similarly, EU-wide initiatives to counter emerging threats echo the importance of coordinated regulatory actions, which Ireland’s agencies are now embracing at a national level.

Enforcement and Future Cooperation

Both agencies have made it clear that they expect online services to comply with existing laws and will take appropriate action to assess adherence to obligations. Future cooperation between the DPC and Coimisiún na Meán may include sharing insights on emerging risks, such as those related to data breaches or harmful content, and collaborating on educational resources for the public. This could involve joint guidelines for platforms, awareness campaigns, or tools to help users understand their rights and responsibilities online.

Niamh Hodnett of Coimisiún na Meán stressed the importance of a media landscape that safeguards children’s rights, wellbeing, and development. “Through close cooperation with the DPC, we are dedicated to mobilising our respective regulatory roles in relation to online safety and data protection to uphold children’s rights online,” she said. This sentiment reinforces the agencies’ commitment to a unified approach in an era where digital and media boundaries are increasingly blurred.

Background on the Regulatory Bodies

Coimisiún na Meán, established in 2023, succeeded the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland and was granted expanded functions, including the development of Ireland’s regulatory framework for online safety. Its mandate covers a wide range of media services, with a growing focus on digital platforms. The DPC, founded in 2018, serves as Ireland’s national authority for data protection, enforcing laws like the GDPR across Ireland and acting as the lead supervisory authority in the EU/EEA for many multinational companies based in Ireland.

This partnership not only enhances Ireland’s regulatory capacity but also positions the country as a leader in integrating data privacy and online safety measures. As digital threats evolve, such collaborative efforts will be crucial in fostering a secure and trustworthy online environment for all users, particularly the most vulnerable.

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