Abuse of public representatives a threat to local democracy, warns group

Limerick mayor John Moran and Galway mayor Helen Ogbu, who have been subjected to a series of abuse in recent weeks. 

The Association of Irish Local Government (AILG) has condemned death threats made against Limerick mayor John Moran and warned that abuse of public representatives poses a threat to local democracy.

The organisation described the abuse directed at Mr Moran and Galway mayor Helen Ogbu as deeply concerning and unacceptable, warning that harassment of public representatives poses a threat to democratic participation.

The Irish Examiner revealed on Monday that Mr Moran had been subjected to a series of abusive comments and death threats in recent weeks.

A Garda spokesperson confirmed to the Irish Examiner that a report relating to the threats has been received.

"In general terms all threats against elected representatives or political candidates are taken seriously and will be investigated," the spokesperson said.

AILG president Aengus O'Rourke, a councillor in Athlone, said: "We must never take our democracy for granted. Democracy is precious, and perhaps more fragile than we sometimes realise. 

"It depends on ordinary people being willing to put themselves forward, to represent their communities, to make difficult decisions and to work towards the greater good of society.” 

Mr O’Rourke said the two mayors chose to give their commitment to public service to make a difference in their communities.

"Of course, elected representatives must be open to criticism, challenge, and robust public debate. That is fundamental to democracy. But what we have witnessed in recent days, with the deeply offensive racist, homophobic and threatening comments directed at John Moran and Helen Ogbu, goes far beyond legitimate criticism. It is disgusting, deeply hurtful, and completely unacceptable."

He added: "And we need to think about the wider consequences. What message does this behaviour send to a young person, a woman, or someone from a minority background who might be considering putting themselves forward for election? 

"We should be encouraging more people to participate in public life, not creating an environment that frightens them away”.

Mr Moran told the Irish Examiner on Wednesday: “I am grateful to Cllr Aengus O’Rourke and the AILG for their support and solidarity, and I stand equally with mayor Helen Ogbu, who has faced racist abuse that is wholly unacceptable.

“Local representatives are closest to the ground and lead from the front in their communities, yet too often we endure this kind of flak without adequate backing. 

"Government needs to do far more to support local government across Ireland, with proper protections and supports, so that anyone, whatever their background, can step forward to serve their community without fear.” 

The Garda spokesperson said: “Any public representative who may experience harassment or may be the victim of any crime, is advised to report this to An Garda Síochána at the earliest opportunity."