Holyrood council hires contractor to counter ‘misinformation’

By Mark Squibb

The Town of Holyrood has approved the use of a new communication technology that council hopes will be useful in getting accurate information to residents, and quickly.
“I cannot stress how much misinformation is being passed around at this point in time,” said councillor Laura Crawley. “It is absolutely incredible. And I’m sure everyone’s figured out that I’m not just talking about Holyrood.”
To that end, Crawley moved that the Town enter into a contract with ICESOFT Technologies- Voyent System to provide a communication program for residents at a cost of $2,900 plus HST.
“This system will allow the Town to reach residents with real time information regarding situations arising in the town,” explained Crawley. “This program will require residents’ cooperation in providing their contact information in order to receive the notices. The Town has completed contact information for a large number of residents who responded to our requests, however many have still not provided their info, so they will now have the opportunity to provide it to Voyent.”
Councillor Bruce King noted the Town of Clarenville has been using the system for many years and “are very happy with it,” but added that folks can only receive notifications if they register.
Councillor Mable Tilley said that beyond notifications about road closures or changes to the garbage collection schedule, the program can keep people in the loop during emergency situations.
Tilley, a member of the Central Avalon Search and Rescue group, said that she has seen it in action during evacuation situations and highly recommended it.
“Give it a chance,” said Tilley. “It could make the difference of you getting out of an emergency situation safely or not.”
Residents can choose which notifications they receive.
Crawley said the information is protected, and added that people’s phone numbers and email address are usually known to the public anyway.
“Phone numbers and emails are out there, so don’t be hesitant to sign up because you don’t want to give out your private information,” said Crawley. “Emails and phone numbers aren’t so private.”
Council approved the motion unanimously.