DPC probe into X Over Grok AI scandal welcomed by Senator
Platforms operating within Ireland and across the EU cannot treat regulation as optional
The decision by the Data Protection Commission to open a formal investigation into X over its Grok AI tool centring on the alleged generation of sexualised images of adults and children has been welcomed locally by Fine Gael Senator Joe O'Reilly.
“The absolutely unacceptable and illegal application of this software was morally reprehensible and deeply disturbing," Senator O’Reilly said. "These totally vile images, particularly where children are concerned, represent a gross abuse of technology and must act as a catalyst for the Government to take a more aggressive approach to social media companies that seek to run roughshod over the laws of Ireland and the European Union.”
The Fine Gael Senator emphasised that the regulator’s intervention must mark a turning point in how powerful tech platforms are held to account.
“I welcome the action announced by the Data Protection Commission and fully recognise the Commission’s independence. I do hope, however, that there will be swift action and, if deemed necessary, that sanctions will be imposed on X.”
He warned that platforms operating within Ireland and across the EU cannot treat regulation as optional — nor assume immunity from consequences.
“Platforms operating in Ireland and across the EU must understand that they are not above regulation. Any violation of Irish or EU law will not be tolerated, and appropriate measures must be taken to ensure full compliance by social media companies operating in this jurisdiction.”
But at the heart of the controversy, Sen O’Reilly stressed, are not corporations or compliance procedures- but victims.
“With this announcement, however, we cannot forget who is central to this issue: the victims. Behind every image generated is a real person who deserves dignity, privacy, and safety online. Instead, they were violated in the most extreme and reprehensible way. No one should ever be subjected to such abuse, and even one more victim of this despicable practice is one too many,” concluded Sen O’Reilly.