Dating apps say they are committed to banning users who could put others at risk

Judges would be able to ban convicted sex offenders from using online dating apps under proposals put forward by a Fine Gael senator.

Catherine Noone said she planned to seek an amendment to new legislation after a number of high-profile cases of rapists who used online apps to find and target victims. The Times understands that the government is prepared to support Ms Noone’s measure.

Dating apps have told The Times that they are committed to blacklisting users who could pose a danger to others. At present, a judge does not have the explicit power to restrict a convicted sex offender from using a dating app after their sentencing and release.

The Sex Offenders (Amendment) Bill, which was approved by the government in recent weeks,