Statement on the launch of the StopCOVID NI App for 11-17 year olds
1 October 2020
News
“I welcome the launch of this app for our young people and commend the work undertaken by the Department of Health in such a short timeframe to develop and make it accessible to them.
“I am satisfied and pleased that the rights of children and young people have been considered in its development and that it also protects their privacy.”
Speaking directly to young people the Commissioner said, “Your data will not be stored or shared with others and it will not be used to track you for any other purpose”.
She also responded to young people’s technology concerns saying: “The App has been designed so that it will only use a very small amount of your device’s data and battery.
“At the beginning of the Pandemic I spoke to you and said there is no longer adults and children, young and old, us and you, there is just us. We are in this together and we must work together to stay as safe and healthy as possible. This is as true now as it was back in March.
“Young people have a lower risk from the virus, but that does not mean you have NO risk. The App is an important step in helping to keep you, your family and your community safe, so I really want to encourage you to download and use it.
“As well as using the App it is important that we continue to maintain social distance, wash our hands regularly and wear face coverings.
“I also encourage parents and carers to talk to their children about downloading and using the App, and I encourage young people to talk to your parents if you receive a notification that you need to self-isolate or get a test.
“There was a beginning, there is a middle and there will be an end, that end will be closer if we work together as one and look after ourselves and each other – this is another tool in that fight!”
ENDS