New media

By Kelly Yates
CASEY council has adopted its revised Communications Policy this week, with councillors being recommended to advise the communications department of any media interactions.
The policy, which was discussed at Tuesday night’s council meeting, states that in relation to media inquiries, while it is recognised that councillors are able to speak to the media in their capacity as individual councillors, they are being encouraged to communicate with the council so that a council-wide perspective can be obtained.
Mayor Geoff Ablett will be the official spokesperson on behalf of the City of Casey, with CEO Mike Tyler being the official spokesperson for all Casey operational matters.
The policy says that in all forms of communication, including verbal, printed or electronic, councillors and staff are expected to adhere to the highest standards of ethical practice and professional competence.
Councillors or council staff are not to make any disparaging remarks about other councillors or staff to the media and or the internet, including via emails.