Politicians urged by Sports Minister Patrick O'Donovan to sue online bullies

Politicians and others in high-profile positions should take legal action against people abusing them online, according to Sports Minister Patrick O’Donovan, insisting the criticism they face is tantamount to “thuggery”.

He said an increase in court cases is the only way to stop the “unadulterated bullying” of people in the public light.

Speaking to the Irish Examiner after the Government signed off on a new bill over Christmas extending harassment prevention laws to all forms of communication, the Fine Gael TD said further action may be needed to tackle the “phenomenon” of online bullying.