Designation of VSPS comes into effect

On 14 August 2023, Coimisiún na Meán ("CNAM") with the powers conferred on it by Section 139E and Section 139G of the Broadcasting Act 2009 as amended by the Online Safety Media Regulation Act ("OSMRA"), published a notice on its website designating Video-Sharing Platform Services ("VSPS") as a category of relevant online services, the providers of which are under the jurisdiction of Ireland. 

This designation comes after a period of consultation in accordance with Section 139H of the OSMRA and came into effect yesterday, 11 September 2023.

This is a positive milestone for CNAM as they move towards developing an Online Safety Code ("OSC"). According to CNAM's works programme, it is anticipated that they will shortly consult with relevant stakeholders in advance of developing the code which is expected to be adopted in Q4 of this year. It will then be for CNAM to determine which code(s) apply to that service.

Digital Services Coordinator

CNAM has been designated as the Digital Services Coordinator ("DSC") under the EU Digital Service Act ("DSA") and will have a key supervisory role in the enforcement of the DSA in Ireland. John Evans has been announced as the new Digital Services Commissioner and commenced his duties on 24 July 2023 in advance of the DSA becoming fully applicable on 17 February 2024. It is anticipated that Mr Evans will work very closely with the Online Safety Commissioner, Niamh Hodnett.

Please do not hesitate to contact Sinéad Taaffe or Damien Watson should you require any information or advice on this topic.