Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 December 2023
286. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if her 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 she will make a statement on the matter. [53664/23]
View answerMy Department is committed to providing accurate and timely information on behalf of Ministers and the Department. The Department’s Communications Unit delivers citizen-focused communications through press, broadcast and digital channels, and places the public at the centre of its work. It provides an opportunity to build understanding and trust with the public through transparency, by showing how funding is spent, and enables the Department to engage directly with citizens in an open, honest and efficient manner.
Social media is one of these channels of communication, and the Department’s official social media presence allows it to share publicly details of the work ongoing in individual units and its relevant agencies, and directs the public to the Department website as an official and trusted information source, where often, more information can be found. The Department’s messaging is carried on a number of its official accounts, including X, formerly Twitter, as well as LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook. No subscription fees are paid in respect of any social media platform. The Department’s social media accounts are managed by Communications Unit staff following training in social media management. Likes or shares, on any platform, primarily amplify the work of our agencies and programmes. The Department has social media guidelines in place outlining best practice for all social media work.
