Local politicians condemn attack on Michael Healy-Rae - Donegal News

LOCAL politicians have spoken out against violence on public representatives after last week’s attack on Michael Healy-Rae.

The Kerry TD was driving on Cork Street in Dublin last Wednesday when he was assaulted through his car window.

The 59-year-old was taken to hospital and received seven stitches to his head after he was allegedly punched and suffered cracked teeth.

A man in his 50s was charged with the assault and appeared in court on Friday.

The attack has raised questions over online threats and the security of politicians out in public.

Several Donegal politicians shared their concerns with the Donegal News.

Sinn Féin councillor Gerry McMonagle said: “First of all, I would like to wish Michael well and hope he makes a speedy recovery. Unfortunately, the safety of elected representatives is becoming more precarious.

“The advent of social media I believe has increased the demonisation and abuse of elected representatives leading to more incidents of physical assaults. It’s becoming a real concern for elected representatives and their families leading to greater security measures being taken by many elected representatives.”

He added: “There should be no tolerance of this type of behaviour and the perpetrators should feel the full rigor of the justice system.”

Independent politician and former Donegal TD, Thomas Pringle said: “I condemn outright the assault on Michael Healy Rae, it is shocking for any individual to suffer such violence.

“We need to oppose the use of this type of violence and the many threats of violence and sexual assault against many women representatives as well. If people are unhappy with a politician’s performance they can vote them out at the next opportunity and that is the way to show dissatisfaction with someone’s performance.”

Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Gary Doherty said: “I was very sorry to hear about the assault on Michael Healy-Rae and I wish him a speedy recovery.

“I firmly believe there is never any place for violence or intimidation in politics or in wider society.

“Public representatives will always face criticism and strong disagreement, and that is part of democracy. But behind every elected representative is also a family and people who care about them, and nobody should have to worry about their loved one coming to harm simply because they are involved in public life.”

The Sinn Féin councillor added: “It’s important that incidents like this do not create a distance between elected representatives and the communities we serve. Accessibility and openness are a really important part of public life in Ireland.

“But regardless of our political differences, no public representative should ever have to fear for their safety. That is simply unacceptable.”

In July, 70 female politicians from across Ireland were targeted with disturbing phone calls from anonymous numbers.

This included Donegal councillors Dakota Nic Mheanman and Joy Beard, who both said they would be taking extra precautions when answering calls.

“Nobody should feel they aren’t safe in their job regardless of what job they have,” said Cllr Nic Mheanman. “Politicians are responsible to the people and need to be held accountable but that does not mean physical assaulting them or verbal threats.

“I think it’s fair to say most people are respectful when it comes to a politician’s own space however a lot of recent events such as this have shown that there are people out there that simply don’t care and are happy to overstep.”

Receive quality journalism wherever you are, on any device. Keep up to date from the comfort of your own home with a digital subscription. Any time | Any place | Anywhere