English urges govt departments to increase social media engagement

Fine Gael Meath West TD and Chair of the Oireachtas Jobs Committee, Damien English, has today (Friday) urged all Government departments to engage more with the public through social media. Deputy English made his call after the response to a series of Parliamentary Questions he submitted
revealed that just three out of sixteen government departments engage in real time reporting of public conversations on social media and blog sites.

“Social media has transformed the way we communicate, and I believe that the various government departments can enhance how they interact with the public through a closer analysis of online chatter. But the responses to a series of Parliamentary Questions I submitted shows that government departments are greatly underutilising social media as a means of communicating, evaluating and responding to the public.

“While the majority of government departments monitor social media at some level, very few of them actively engage with the issues being raised. While it would not be feasible for departments to respond to every direct message on social media and blog sites, there is scope to increase the level of online communication.  

“By doing so, information from departments can be better targeted to members of the public and in turn will lead to an increased level of engagement online. Social media not only provides an outlet for views to be aired, but it’s also a great way to exchange information and have constructive conversations which might not otherwise be possible.

“People are increasingly communicating through social media, and it is now our instinct to go online anytime we need information. Government departments are a huge resource of information, but they must ensure they are meeting the increasing demand for interaction and engagement, rather than simply imparting information in a one-way format.”

Conor Lynch CEO of SocialMedia.ie commented that: ‘I encourage all government departments to open up social media channels for dialogue and engagement with the public.   Social media is not only about talking, but also offers departments the ability to listen into public conversations happening online.   This is where people are sharing their opinions and information with each other’.

“Social media now offers the most efficient and cost effective way for the Government to get the word out about its important work. I am not surprised with the findings from Damien English’s research but a government focused on saving money, should really be embracing social media with open arms.”

ENDS