Following a proposal by UK Labour leader Keir Starmer to ban under-16s from social media, Irish political figures are now considering similar legislation. Both Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Minister for Further and Higher Education Simon Harris have indicated the Irish government is evaluating the feasibility of an age restriction. Sinn Féin has voiced concerns that such a ban could inadvertently push younger users towards less secure online spaces. The party argues that a prohibition may drive teens to “darker, unregulated, corners of the internet,” potentially increasing their exposure to harmful content. The debate centers on balancing online safety for young people with potential unintended consequences. Further discussion and analysis are expected as the Irish government assesses the potential impact of the proposed ban.