In 2025, the Liberal Government implemented restrictions on the use of personal electronic devices in schools, recognizing the distraction and harm excessive cellphone use poses to students. These measures are reportedly showing positive results for both students and teachers.
It is becoming increasingly evident that social media is having a negative effect on the development, mental health, and overall well-being of young people, which raises concerns among parents, guardians, educators, mental health professionals, and child advocates around the world.
Several jurisdictions are moving forward with efforts to strengthen protections for children online, including Australia, France, Norway, and Manitoba.
To strengthen safeguards for Newfoundland and Labrador’s children and youth in digital spaces, the Official Opposition’s PMR urged the provincial government to consult with parents, educators, youth, mental health experts, and technology professionals to develop measures that prioritize child safety and privacy; examine legislative and regulatory changes to restrict or prohibit access to social media for children under 16 years of age; and work with provinces and territories to establish national standards to better protect children online.
“It is incumbent upon us, as Members of the House of Assembly, to consider legislative changes that support our province’s youngest learners, their development, and their overall well-being. As a father of young children, I am pleased to have the unanimous support of all Honourable Members on this PMR and look forward to seeing the government bring forward relevant legislation in the near future.”
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