New Media Commission will regulate algorithmic decision-making

Move comes after warnings about the potential harmful effects of the process central to the business models of social media companies

Instagram apologised to users after an issue with its algorithm meant diet-based content was suggested to users with eating disorders. Photo: Getty

Ireland’s new Media Commission will take charge of regulating in the sphere of algorithmic decision-making by companies and government agencies, it has been confirmed.

The move has been welcomed by Senator Malcolm Byrne, who said algorithmic decision-making – which is central to the business models of social media companies – can have harmful effects if not effectively monitored.

The Oireachtas media committee is currently conducting pre-legislative scrutiny of the proposed Online Safety and Media Regulation ...