The Cabinet Office Minister said government must use “the most effective channel” for each situation.
His comments followed questions about essential updates being issued first on social media.
David Ashford MHK told Members that communications teams advise departments on the most appropriate platform depending on the message, its urgency and the audience.
He said website updates, news releases, media engagement and multiple social channels are all used, with targeted advertising and public events also part of the mix.
Asked by Rushen MHK Dr Michelle Haywood on whether departments were complying with government guidance, which states social media should be supplementary, not the primary route for time‑critical information, Mr Ashford said social platforms can be necessary for rapid public‑safety updates.
He noted the government’s main Facebook page has around 30,000 followers and that posts are often amplified quickly by traditional media.
Not Everyone Uses Social Media
Dr Haywood raised wider concerns about data harvesting by large tech companies, misinformation, mental‑health impacts and age restrictions that prevent younger bus users accessing timetable updates.
She asked the Minister to ensure residents are not disadvantaged by reliance on platforms some people avoid.
Mr Ashford acknowledged the issues and said the government website must remain the “permanent repository” for official information, but accepted it is “not exactly fit for purpose”. He confirmed work is already under way on a full upgrade.
He said communication strategies must reflect how people actually consume information, noting that some rely on social media, others on radio, newspapers or websites.
He added that the points raised would be fed back to the communications team and shared across government.
You can listen to the full exchange here:
