Waterford councillor responds to disturbing calls made to female representatives

West Waterford councillor Kate O’Mahoney has said she stands in solidarity with the female councillors around the country receiving harassing phone calls.

Recent media reports say that around 80 female councillors have been receiving calls from a private number making disturbing comments.

Cllr O’Mahoney said that she too is recieving repeated phone calls from a private number but she does not answer.

While she can’t be certain, Cllr O’Mahoney said she believes these calls are from one person.

In a post on social media, the councillor said: “Thankfully, I never answer calls from private numbers for exactly this reason.

Politicians, no matter their gender and from all parties and none, already face a level of abuse, intimidation and harassment that too often goes unseen. Whether it’s online abuse, threatening messages, or phone calls, these tactics are designed to make us feel unsafe and to make us think twice about putting ourselves forward to represent our communities.

As a young woman in politics, I know how important it is that we do not allow this kind of behaviour to become normalised. We need more women entering politics, not fewer. No one should be discouraged from serving their community because they fear abuse.

It is important to note that abuse of this kind is very rare. It comes from a very small minority of people. The vast majority of people who comment, reach out or get in touch with me are amazing, and an absolute pleasure to deal with, said Cllr O’Mahoney.

Cllr O’Mahoney went on to say that all of those targeted were elected to represent their communities and should be able to do so, free from abuse.

And she said that she will continue not to answer calls from private numbers as it is clearly not safe.

“This behaviour is completely unacceptable. It will not silence me, and it should not silence anyone who chooses a life in politics,” said Cllr O’Mahoney.