Online abuse of politicians is a profitable business

Senator Eileen Flynn's comments on far-right use of the tricolour have made her a lightning rod for online abuse — because viral hatred is highly profitable

Senator Eileen Flynn at an anti-racism protest protest outside Leinster House. Picture: Sam Boal/Rollingnews.ie

In recent days, Senator Eileen Flynn has been subjected to a barrage of online abuse for speaking out against racism and nationalist propaganda. This is part of a growing pattern of abuse towards politicians. Ireland needs to heed what happened in the UK.

It is nearly 10 years since British Labour MP Jo Cox was murdered in cold blood by a far-right extremist during the Brexit referendum campaign. When her killer Thomas Mair was asked his name in court, he replied: “My name is death to traitors, freedom for Britain!"