In the wake of Pink Shirt Day, a “Cyber Bullying Task Force” has been set up to tackle bullying online. Vodafone, Telecom, the police the Ministry of Education and InternetNZ are all part of the group established by cybersafety organisation NetSafe. “Technology is a fundamental part of society but has also brought a new level of complexity to those people trying to combat bullying. The Task Force is an important and timely chance to bring together relevant stakeholders to look at ways to support those people,” says NetSafe Executive Director, Martin Cocker. “Bullying is a whole community problem so we can't leave it for just one group to deal with,” he says. “the Task Force is a way for schools, community groups, action groups, police and the government to work together to really make a difference.” Cocker also adds that the Cyber Bullying Task Force will call on every New Zealand community to do their part to fight cyber bullying before the issue becomes serious. “NetSafe and the people and organisations that comprise or support Cyber Bullying Task Force hope that the three key platforms will become supported as a benchmark or national manifesto throughout the country to help protect the youth of New Zealand.” More information about cyber bullying and the initiatives discussed at Cyber Bullying Task Force can be found at www.netsafe.co.nz
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Monday, 18th April 2011 - 10:18am