Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 December 2023
144. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if his Department operates an X account (formerly Twitter) or any other social media account, and if such accounts are verified through a subscription fee; the policy in place that guides when any of these accounts can ‘like’, endorse or support a posting on X or other social media platforms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53653/23]
View answerMy Department utilises a variety of social media channels in order to communicate effectively with the public about Ireland’s transition to a digitally-connected, climate-neutral and sustainable society. My Department has accounts on X (formerly Twitter), Meta (Instagram and Facebook) and LinkedIn; and does not pay subscription fees for any of our social media accounts.
My Department regularly reviews the most effective and appropriate platforms to reach all parts of Irish society and continues to monitor all social media platforms in terms of effectiveness, brand safety, moderation policy, and regulatory developments. There is no obligation to respond to all messages on our social media platforms. However, in some cases, it may be appropriate to offer information to users who reach out to us directly. Abusive or spam posts, comments and messages will be deleted and might result in users being blocked and reported.
Our social media policy outlines how we behave, engage and interact on social media, and sets out the expectations of the community on our social media platforms. My Department is in the process of updating this policy which will be made available on our online channels to ensure that our audiences understand how and when we engage, or how to contact our Department in certain circumstances.
