Many Irish politicians have active social media accounts - but are they prioritising online engagement over face-to-face meetings?
In an interview with the Irish Examiner, former Ceann Comhairle Seán Ó Fearghaíl criticised Irish politicians for prioritising social media over other forms of campaigning.
In the wake of Mr Ó Fearghaíl's comments, former Fianna Fáil campaign manager Derek Mooney told The Hard Shoulder he does not see an issue with politicians' use of social media.
"Social media is a very, very effective campaigning tool, and that’s the fact you need to deal with," he said.
"Politicians are going to be where they think the votes are."
Mr Mooney disagreed with the idea that politicians are not engaging with the public on a face-to-face level.
"In my own experience in previous campaigns, I think the one thing you cannot fault politicians for is their availability - they’re out on the doorsteps," he said.
"If anything, the criticism of Irish politicians is they’re too parochial, they’re too focused on their constituency rathern than looking at national issues."
Social media consultant Samantha Kelly said social media and public engagement can "work well together".
"The secret is to use it correctly," she said.
"A lot of the politicians I follow on social media are always active during the year and they’re the ones that are going to win.
"It’s the ones that are always there – they're the ones that are going to get the vote."
Ms Kelly said social media can "level the playing field" for independent politicians in particular.
"Social media essentially is a free tool that people can use - once they're giving value, using the platform correctly and reaching the target audience they want to reach."
Social media can make politics more accessible, Ms Kelly said.
"People with disabilities in particular feel included when they’re able to actually speak to the politicians online - they might not be able to leave the house, they might not be able to answer the door," she said.
Ms Kelly said while social media is an effective tool for politicians, it still cannot beat "face-to-face" interactions.
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