Social Media Policy: Rules for Use of Na Piarsaigh’s Social Media Platforms

As overseen by the Club Public Relations Officer (PRO), these rules are designed to ensure that the club’s social media platforms are managed responsibly, reflect the club’s values, and promote a positive image of the organization. This policy is implemented to protect the reputation of Na Piarsaigh, maintain professionalism, prevent misuse, clarify responsibilities, safeguard players, children, mentors and club officials, enhance branding, and ensure compliance with regulations.

General Guidelines

  1. Respect & Integrity:
    • All content must uphold the core values of the GAA and reflect positively on the club, players, and community.
    • Posts should never include offensive, defamatory, or discriminatory language.
  2. Official Use Only:
    • Club social media platforms are for promoting official club activities, news, and events.
    • Personal opinions of the PRO or other members should not be posted.
  3. Accuracy:
    • Ensure all information shared is accurate and verified before posting.
    • Correct any errors quickly if inaccurate information is posted.
  4. Approval Process:
    • Content must be approved by the PRO, or in exceptional circumstances, by the club Secretary before posting.
    • Sensitive announcements (e.g., cancellations, injuries, disciplinary issues) must be cleared with the club executive committee.
  5. Compliance with GAA & GDPR Rules:
    • Adhere to GAA social media guidelines.
    • Respect data protection laws, especially when posting photos or personal details.

Content Rules

  1. Match Updates & Results:
    • Provide balanced coverage of all teams, from underage to senior.
    • Avoid negative commentary on opposing teams, players, or officials.
    • When a designated assistant is assigned to provide match updates, their posting remit should be limited to the game itself, and they should refrain from sharing unrelated content.
  2. Youth Content:
    • Parental consent is required before posting photos or names of underage players.
    • All posts regarding club activity be it training and/or games should be posted through the clubs official accounts and not through private/personal accounts.
    • Celebrate youth achievements positively without overemphasizing performance.
  3. Photographs & Videos:
    • Use high-quality, appropriate images/videos.
    • Avoid posting content that may embarrass or offend any individual.
  4. Engagement:
    • Respond politely to questions and comments but avoid engaging in arguments or controversial topics.
    • Delete or hide offensive comments promptly and report serious issues to the club executive committee.
  5. Sponsorships & Fundraising:
    • All promotional posts for sponsors must align with agreements approved by the club executive committee.
    • Fundraising campaigns should be clear, transparent, and club-related.

Communication

To ensure consistency, professionalism, and alignment with the club’s values, all posts or updates related to training, matches, events, or any other club activities must be published exclusively through the club’s official social media accounts.

Private individuals, including players, coaches, staff, and members, are not permitted to post such updates on personal accounts on behalf of the club without prior approval from the club’s PRO or Secretary.

Purpose of this policy:

  • Maintain a unified voice for the club.
  • Protect the privacy and reputation of all members.
  • Ensure accuracy and professionalism in all communications.

The PRO is the point of contact for inquiries or content suggestions.

Prohibited Content

  • Content involving criticism of referees, opposing teams, or GAA officials.
  • Political or religious opinions unrelated to the club’s activities.
  • Images, videos, or text that violate copyright laws.
  • Sharing unverified rumors, misinformation, or confidential club matters.

Access & Security

  1. Account Management:
    • Only the PRO and designated assistants will have access to account login credentials.
    • Passwords must be changed regularly and shared only with authorised personnel.
  2. Linking Accounts:
      • Direct links between the club’s official social media accounts and any private or business accounts are not permitted unless explicitly authorised by the PRO. Any exceptions must align with the club’s branding and communication standards.
    2. Handover Policy:
      • When the PRO role changes, a formal handover of account credentials, policies, and ongoing campaigns must occur.
    3. Reporting Issues:
      • Any inappropriate behavior or content on club platforms should be reported to the PRO immediately.

    Disciplinary Action

    Violations of these rules may result in:

    1. Immediate removal of the content.
    2. Suspension of access privileges for the offending party.
    3. Referral to the club executive committee for further action.

    By adhering to these rules, the club ensures its social media platforms remain a positive and effective tool for promoting its activities and engaging with the community.

    This policy is subject to any changes that the GAA may make in relation to its Social Media Policy and Guidelines.