Internet Service Providers should be forced to declare whether they block the use of websites containing child pornography, a TD warned today.
Michael Finneran, a member of the Dail Committee on Social and Family Affairs, said he understood the industry regulated itself but there should be a law compelling such companies to publish their policies.
"There are, I gather, some companies thought not to publicise the practice of making it harder for paedophiles to bypass filter systems," the Roscommon TD said.
"We need to be in a situation where we are able to take the swiftest possible action to encourage internet service providers to use the existing technology to stop these images being relayed to those people who wish to see them, and are contributing to the child pornography trade.
"We must begin to examine these proposals, because if we delay more children will be abused." Mr Finneran said most illegal child porn sites run from the US and Europe are monitored by the gardai.
"I will be actively lobbying the Minister for Justice, Equality & Law Reform Michael McDowell and all relevant parties to examine these proposals and to take action as soon as possible," he added.
PA