Should the government ban students from using smartphones during school hours?

As anxiety rises over the impact of social media algorithms on youth mental health, Ireland is debating a 'Keep Childhood Smartphone Free' initiative. While many primary schools have adopted voluntary bans, the debate has shifted to whether the state should mandate that secondary schools seize devices at the door to stop cyberbullying and improve academic performance. Proponents argue that a blanket ban is the only way to break the cycle of dopamine addiction and restore social skills in the classroom. Opponents argue that a state mandate undermines parental rights and ignores the reality that technology is integral to modern life and safety.