Information Minister, Senator Dr. Dana Morris Dixon says the government will be embarking on a social media literacy campaign to help Jamaicans identify real news. 

Her announcement follows condemnation of Prime Minister Andrew Holness’ indication that his administration has been tracking down those who use social media for defamation purposes, and that action would be taken against them. 

Some groups including the Opposition People’s National Party criticized the Prime Minister’s statement, describing the plan as an attack on privacy and freedom of speech.

But speaking during a post-Cabinet press briefing this morning, Dr. Dixon said fake news is a problem which must be eradicated.

She said the Broadcasting Commission will launch a public education campaign on the issue.

She clarified that there is no new law relating to fake news.