Concern after harassment of up to 70 female councillors
The Association of Irish Local Government has reported that up to 70 female councillors have been targeted by a campaign of harassing, sexually inappropriate phone calls. Authorities are investigating the incidents, which appear to specifically target women across various political parties.
Why it matters
The targeted harassment of elected officials poses a threat to democratic participation and highlights the specific risks faced by women in public life.
The organisation representing local elected representatives has expressed concern over the harassment of up to 70 female councillors across the country.
The Association of Irish Local Government (AILG) said it had been made aware of repeated telephone calls from an individual who has subjected female elected members from across the political spectrum to disturbing and inappropriate sexual comments.
It said the calls have been reported to gardaí.
Head of Operations at AILG Elaine Lynch said the first reports from female councillors around the country were made last Monday week.
She said they were receiving "persistent, harassing telephone calls," and the reports "have increased over the past couple of days".
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