The Irish Government has announced that every 10 year old child in the State is to be issued with a mobile phone as part of a new plan to increase technology skills and awareness.

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In a new move to try to improve technology skills, the Irish Government has announced that all families with a 10 year old registered in their household will receive a new phone by the end of June 2020.

The tweens will have to practice their phone skills as well as texting and looking on the internet. This is to increase the level of awareness and tech skills amongst this cohort.

A spokesperson for the Government said “Too few parents are supporting their child’s technology learning and we need to tackle this once and for all.”

It’s expected that the first wave of handset deliveries will start from May, and each family should receive theirs by end June at the latest. This will allow the kids to practice on them over the summer.

Reactions from Parents

Some parents have reacted strongly to the news while others are more positive in their reaction.

“I am not a fan of phones in general so I’m really not happy about this” said mum of 3, Ciara.

Sharon, who has ten-year-old twins was a bit more circumspect in her reaction. “If it helps my children, I don’t mind”.

What are your thoughts on the proposed plan by the Irish government to give phones for 10 year olds? Leave a comment below and let us know – we’d love to hear from you!