TÁNAISTE EAMON GILMORE has said that his department is one of the most active on social media, currently operating 25 Twitter accounts and two Facebook accounts for various embassies across the globe.
In response to a recent parliamentary question, Gilmore said he recognised the potential of Twitter, in particular, to provide timely and relevant information to citizens in Ireland and abroad. The Department of Foreign Affairs started to establish social media accounts in 2011 and has plans to set up more in the months ahead, he said.
The 25 Twitter accounts for Irish embassies in foreign countries are in addition to the four Twitter accounts and and one Facebook profile operated centrally by the department. There are Twitter accounts for the following embassies:
As of last August, Gilmore said the accounts had a combined total of almost 34,000 followers on Twitter alone.
“Social media is particularly useful in terms of providing advice about our services, including passports and travel advice; raising awareness of the work of missions and the Department more broadly and highlighting Irish events, associations, and companies worldwide,” he said.
“In countries where Twitter is not commonly used or available, we encourage the use of appropriate social media. For example our missions in China are about to establish Sina Weibo accounts.”
The two Facebook profiles are for the embassies in New Dehli and Sydney.
The Tánaiste said it is his intention that the department’s use of social media “continues to expand in a broad and sustainable manner”.
“My department is finalising a Social Media Policy to guide staff at missions and headquarters on the optimum use of social media platforms to ensure continued best practice online,” he added.
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