Northern Irish Health Minister Jim Wells denies ‘homophobic’ Twitter blockings
Northern Irish Health Minister Jim Wells has claimed his decision to block gay rights activists and PinkNews on Twitter was motivated by “abusive language”.
Mr Wells – who has previously claimed that he finds Pride “repugnant” and refused to take part in gay rights debates – was appointed as Health Minister in a reshuffle last month.
He proceeded to inexplicably block several critics including PinkNews on Twitter, just hours into his new ministerial role, with skeptics groups, women’s rights activists and gay rights advocates are all among those who have been blocked.
Speaking to The Scoop, Mr Wells said: “I welcome people joining me on Twitter, and since my appointment I’ve had hundreds of new friends.
“I want to make it very clear, if someone swears at me, or uses foul language, or swears at another member of the party, I’ll delete them and block them.
“Those that have been blocked need to look at their language.”
Despite his comments, PinkNews – which can confirm it remains blocked by Mr Wells – has never posted offensive language beyond questioning his gay rights record, and many others blocked report never interacting with Mr Wells at all.
Mr Wells adds that anyone objects to his policy can “send me an email explaining”. His email address is jim.wells
Mr Wells did not return a request for comment from PinkNews.
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