The Irish government is considering formal age limits for social media accounts as part of a wide-ranging artificial intelligence strategy reviewed at a cabinet meeting on Wednesday. Officials are discussing proposals that would restrict access for users younger than 16, framing the measure as one element of a broader digital policy.
A memo issued by the prime minister's office and seen by Bloomberg states: "Ireland will strongly advocate for a decision on the 'digital age of majority' to be taken at EU level," and adds the government will "take action domestically if necessary." The wording in the memo signals that Dublin intends both to pursue coordinated action with European partners and to retain the option of national measures should EU agreement not be reached.
As part of the plan, the government intends to engage with like-minded member states inside the European Union to examine mechanisms for implementing age restrictions on social media platforms. The consultation with other countries aims to identify workable approaches for applying an agreed age threshold across borders.
The AI strategy under discussion goes beyond social media regulation. It also outlines commitments to invest in AI infrastructure and to bolster cybersecurity capabilities, while positioning Ireland to strengthen its status as a regulatory center for digital policy. These components are presented as complementary parts of a comprehensive approach to governing emerging technologies.
The proposal to limit teenage access to social media reflects a wider European conversation about the effects of these platforms on young people. The memo notes that at least 10 European nations, including Spain, France, the UK, and Poland, are weighing similar limitations. The European movement on this issue follows Australia’s decision in January to block social media accounts for users under 16 years of age.
Officials cited in the memo underscore that the government’s next steps will involve coordination with partners at the EU level, while reserving the ability to pursue domestic action if coordinated EU measures cannot be secured. Details on the timing, specific regulatory mechanisms, and enforcement approaches were not provided in the memo made available to the press.
Context and implications
The policy outline links regulatory proposals on social media access for minors with parallel investments in technology infrastructure and security. By coupling age-restriction proposals with plans to invest in AI capabilities and cybersecurity, the government seeks to present a comprehensive digital strategy that addresses both consumer protection and technological development.