REGINA — Premier Scott Moe is asking for input on the idea of banning social media access for those under age 16.
On the X platform this week, Moe pointed to an Angus Reid survey showing upwards of 75 per cent of Canadians supported a total ban on social media for those under 16. He posted the following:
“A new poll says 75 per cent of Canadians would like to see a full ban on social media for children under 16. Australia has moved in this direction. Canada should be considering options to limit social media use by minors. In the coming weeks, our government will be asking Saskatchewan people for their views on this matter.”
Speaking to reporters at the legislature Monday, Moe talked further about what he had in mind.
He said they are thinking of engaging parents and people across the province on “what space should the government enter into, whether it’s representing their views within a potential federal government initiative in this space, or whether it’s something that we should look at more at a provincial level.”
“I think what we’re looking at right now is how do we engage people, residents, families of the province of Saskatchewan on the social media platforms that we have? Should we entertain, as this poll that came out, an outright ban for students and kids 16 years and under, or should there be a parental consent… portion or requirement for kids 16 years and under, and should it be on all platforms or should it be variable depending on the platform?”
Moe noted Prime Minister Mark Carney was asked about this recently and indicated it was likely time for this debate and for this conversation.
“I very much would agree with that,” Moe said.
Moe indicated he is not looking to introduce legislation immediately, but instead plans to engage Saskatchewan families to gather their views, including whether Canada should consider measures similar to those in Australia and how the province might respond if the federal government moves forward on the issue.
Speaking to reporters Tuesday, Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation President Samantha Becotte gave her remarks about the idea of a social media ban.
“Well, there are many studies that show the impacts of social media on young people. And we’ve also been talking about the mental health crisis that we’re seeing among youth in Saskatchewan,” said Becotte. “We haven’t been consulted in terms of any of those discussions, but we’re happy to work collaboratively with the government to ensure that students are getting met and that they are well supported. If they’re in their schools and classrooms, and of course, in their community.”
With files from Jon Perez
