'Everyday sexism' and abuse preventing female political participation

Ivana Bacik "became quickly conscious how pale, male and stale" the Seanad was back in 2007

Ivana Bacik "When I was elected, it was pointed out to me that I am only the 131st woman ever to have been elected to the Dáil, a shocking statistic." Photo: Gareth Chaney /Collins Photos

High levels of gender-based abuse and harassment are an increasing barrier to women’s becoming involved in political participation.

That is according to Labour TD Ivana Bacik, who says that women experience such misogynistic abuse, particularly online, in carrying out their everyday roles as public representatives.