A Saskatchewan NDP MLA is being investigated by the province’s conflict of interest commissioner after complaints about her promoting her cheese shop on social media alongside legislative matters.
Regina Albert South MLA Aleana Young’s social media is being reviewed, the commissioner’s office confirmed Friday.
Young’s social media is being flagged for containing a blend of legislative content mixed in with her small business achievements, such as her holiday cheese boards and shop’s five-year-milestone.
“I’m proud of the fact that I am a small business owner,” said Young in an interview with CBC Friday. Young owns the shop Takeaway Gourmet in Regina.
The commissioner said in an email to CBC that there were “reasonable and probable grounds” to proceed with the investigation. The commissioner also said that the parties were advised of the investigation earlier in the month.
“For us who are elected officials, I think that the line between professional and personal life can blur,” said Young. “Certainly for my work as an MLA but I also post a lot of pictures of my kids.”
NDP MLA Aleana Young said she shares photos of her children and personal life online, as do other politicians. (Aleana Young/Instagram)
Young isn’t the only political figure using social media in this way.
The social media platforms of figures from all parties, ranging from backbenchers to the premier showcase both political and personal posts. This includes important constituency and legislative-related updates scattered in with posts about family moments, hobbies and small businesses.
“Some MLA’s, like the premier, will post pictures celebrating harvest in a combine,” said Young.
Young argued that Re-elect Premier Scott Moe also posts personal information online, along with other politicians. (Scott Moe/Facebook)
The conflict of interest commissioner is looking to clarify the guidelines around the use of social media for members of the legislative assembly.
Most of the regulations governing the legislative assembly and its members were established before social media was present.
“Social media is a real grey area, and we think members of the legislature should have policies fit for the twenty-first century, said Meara Conway, shadow minister of ethics and democracy, in a release Friday.
Young is complying with the Commissioner and hopes to bring clarity to these guidelines.
“I’m looking forward to whatever clarification that the commissioner brings forward for myself but also for all MLA’s around social media,” said Young.