An advisory group has been formed by the Department of Communications to examine the emerging issues of online content and its impact on young people.

The Internet Content Governance Advisory Group will consider online bullying and harassment and issues around age-inappropriate viewing of content.

It will also look at the growth in internet use over the last decade, particularly concerning mobile phones.

The group will take submissions from the public and produce a report for the Mr Rabbitte by the end of May next year.

In a statement, Minister for Communications Pat Rabbitte: "Fundamental to their work is the question of striking an appropriate balance in policy terms that ensures the protection of children and young people but does not limit their opportunities and rights online".

The group will be chaired by the Head of the School of Media at Dublin Institute of Technology, Dr Brian O'Neill.