East Meath councillor Sharon Tolan has welcomed reported progress in a Garda investigation into abusive and intimidating phone calls targeting female politicians across Ireland.
Cllr Tolan, who represents the Laytown-Bettystown area and is a former Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council, said she was among around 80 female councillors reportedly affected.
Recent reports indicate that Gardaí have identified a suspect, carried out a search and seized a number of mobile phones and other media devices as part of the investigation. The investigation is continuing.
Cllr Tolan said no public representative should have to face intimidation or harassment because of their work.
“No public representative should ever have to face intimidation, harassment or abuse,” she said.
“The disturbing and targeted calls made to female councillors across the country in recent times are deeply concerning.
“Around 80 female councillors, including myself, have reportedly been affected. We are women from different political parties, different backgrounds, and different parts of the country, united only by the fact that we have chosen to serve our communities in public office.”
Garda investigation continuing
Cllr Tolan welcomed the reported developments in the investigation.
“It is therefore very welcome that An Garda Síochána have made significant progress in their investigation, with a suspect identified, premises searched and items seized,” she said.
“Public representatives must be able to carry out their work without fear, intimidation or harassment.”
Other councillors who have spoken publicly about the calls have described receiving disturbing and threatening communications, with reports indicating that women across several political parties and counties were targeted.
No finding of guilt has been made against any individual and the Garda investigation remains ongoing.
‘We need more women in public life’
Cllr Tolan said intimidation should never be allowed to discourage women from entering politics or remaining in public office.
“I hope this investigation now leads to those responsible being held accountable,” she said.
“We need more women in public life, not fewer because of the actions of those who seek to intimidate us.
“Women should never be made to feel that putting themselves forward to serve their communities comes at the cost of their safety or wellbeing.”
Cllr Tolan has previously spoken publicly about abuse directed at her online.
Earlier this year, Drogheda Life reported that she had switched off comments on her social media accounts following what she described as sustained personal and public abuse.
At the time, she said public representatives should not be expected to tolerate abusive behaviour simply because they hold elected office.
The latest investigation has again raised concerns around the treatment of women in public life and the impact harassment can have on elected representatives and their families.
