Northern Ireland Education Minister Paul Givan stated he supports calls to restrict social media use for those under 16. The UK government started a consultation on such a ban. Regulation of social media platforms falls under Westminster jurisdiction, not Stormont.

Givan, from the Democratic Unionist Party, noted his party lacks a firm policy position on the matter. He pointed to a phone restriction pilot in nine post-primary schools that began in September 2025 and continues until March. The scheme limits smartphone access from arrival until departure each school day.

Givan introduced a policy last year to curb smartphone use during school hours at post-primary schools. He described observing Australia's ban on children using platforms including Instagram, Snapchat, YouTube and TikTok.

First Minister Michelle O'Neill commented in January 2026 on social media's mixed effects on youth. She said monitoring Australia's law is key, as positive results could benefit young people by reducing online harms.

Sinn Féin MLA Cathy Mason emphasized placing children and young people at the center of related decisions. The Department of Justice confirmed telecommunications laws, including social media oversight, are reserved to the UK government.