SDLP Education Spokesperson Cara Hunter MLA has called for a ban on smartphones in schools across Northern Ireland, arguing it is necessary to protect young people and enhance their focus on education. 

Ms Hunter's call came ahead of an SDLP Opposition motion on the issue debated in the Assembly, urging all parties to support the proposal.

The East Derry MLA stated there is clear and growing evidence of the harmful impact of smartphone use in educational settings.

"There is mounting evidence of the harmful impact of smartphone and social media use in our schools," Ms Hunter said. "Rising anxiety, self-esteem issues, disrupted sleep, and bullying are all being fuelled by increased phone use among young people. A number of countries have already taken steps to remove smartphones from classrooms, and the SDLP Opposition believes the North must follow suit to protect both pupils and staff."  She referenced a specific example highlighting the potential for serious harm. "Just this morning, we heard an incredibly brave teacher speak out on the radio about the trauma of being upskirted by a pupil, an experience she still lives with today. While this is an extreme example, it shows the very real harm that unregulated phone use can cause in our schools. Current guidance is inconsistent and piecemeal, leaving teachers to manage phone use without the training or support they need."

Linking the issue to broader societal challenges, Ms Hunter added: "This issue has also been highlighted in the recent Netflix drama Adolescence. While fictional, it reflects many of the challenges that parents and schools face when it comes to young people's relationship with social media. This is not about being draconian, it's about protecting children from the darker side of the internet."

She warned about the accessibility risks phones can introduce: "Giving a child a phone does not only give them access to the world, but the outside world access to them, with all the potential danger that involves. We have seen the risks this poses through radicalisation, grooming, and other harmful behaviours."

While acknowledging the potential benefits of smartphones for learning and daily life, Ms Hunter stressed the urgency of addressing the issue. "I was a teenager myself not long ago, I understand that this move won't be welcomed by everyone, but we cannot allow this issue to drift. It's important that young people are included in these discussions and that steps are taken to protect them from harm both online and at school."

She concluded by expressing hope that yesterday's debate would initiate a constructive conversation on dealing with these complex issues.