Council could use TikTok despite government ban

NMDDC is to consider an advertising programme as part of the UK wide strategy for a ‘Smoke Free Generation’ by 2030.

A discussion in chambers has suggested the use of the Chinese based social media platform, however central government concerns have been raised of data being transferred from TikTok to the Beijing government.

Although, the UK Cabinet Office allows for local authorities to decide on TikTok use for themselves, some councils such as North Yorkshire have banned the social media App from staff devices, due to concerns over data security.

Mournes DUP rep, Henry Reilly said: “When looking at the ‘Smoke Free Generation’ plans, I am on the Policing and Community Safety Partnership and we have had quite a detailed discussion on this and they were concerned about this.

“There are unscrupulous people who are exploiting young people. And they are giving them vapes and some of them contain addictive chemicals, that can make a child very vulnerable.

“The problem is, parents don’t know about it and I don’t know how we can get that message out.

“On that committee there was people from the Education Authority and the Youth Justice Department also and if we could organise even a joint TikTok ad or something that would get to young people and get to the parents to make them aware of this.

“If people don’t know about the threat that exists, at least they are made aware of it, then they know what to look out for and then that helps to fight the battle.

“Any guidance from council management would be appreciated.”

A council officer responding, told Cllr Reilly that a discussion could be made between all parties involved with the NMDDC marketing team to look into the matter further.