The Association of Irish Local Government (AILG) has expressed its serious concern following reports from female councillors across Ireland of persistent and distressing harassing telephone calls.
Over recent days, AILG has been made aware of a number of incidents involving repeated calls from an individual who has subjected female elected members from across the political spectrum to disturbing and inappropriate sexual comments. To date, AILG has received reports only from female councillors, indicating that this behaviour appears to be a targeted campaign of harassment against women serving in local government.
AILG President, Cllr Aengus O’ Rourke, said:
“No female elected representative should be subjected to harassment, intimidation or abusive behaviour simply because she has chosen to serve her community. The reports we have received are deeply concerning and point to what appears to be a deliberate campaign targeting women in public office.
Women in local government should never have to accept harassment as part of their role. AILG stands firmly with every councillor who has been affected. We are working with An Garda Síochána and will continue to support our female members while encouraging anyone affected to report every incident.”
The matter has been reported to An Garda Síochána, who have advised that they are closely monitoring the situation. AILG is encouraging any female councillor who receives calls of this nature to report each incident to their local Garda Liaison Officer and to retain details of the calls where possible.
Head of Operations, Elaine Lynch said:
“Following reports from our female members, AILG has contacted every female councillor in the country to make them aware of the situation, provide practical guidance on screening telephone calls and advise them on reporting incidents to their local Garda Liaison Officer.
While this behaviour has been directed at female councillors, it is an attack on local democracy itself. Women should not have to endure intimidation or sexual harassment as a consequence of holding elected office. We want every female councillor to know that she has the full support of AILG, and we will continue to work alongside An Garda Síochána to ensure members receive the advice, support and protection they need.”
AILG is also asking members of the public to be mindful that female councillors may now be exercising greater caution when receiving calls from withheld or private numbers. Where possible, members of the public are asked not to contact councillors from private or withheld numbers. Instead, please leave a voicemail, send a text message or email, or use the published contact details available through your local authority. This will help councillors distinguish genuine enquiries from nuisance or harassing calls while ensuring legitimate constituents can continue to access their elected representatives.
AILG recognises the vital contribution made by women in local government and reiterates that harassment, intimidation and abuse have no place in Irish public life. No one should be deterred from serving their community because of their gender.
The Association will continue to monitor the situation and provide guidance and support to female members as required.
ENDS
For Media Enquiries please contact Elaine Lynch, Head of Operations at 087-3470274 or e.lynch@ailg.ie
Notes to Editor
The Association of Irish Local Government (AILG)
The Association of Irish Local Government (AILG) is the national representative body for Ireland’s 950 city and county councillors. AILG supports elected members through policy development, advocacy, education and training, while promoting strong and effective local democracy.