Probe launched into Fine Gael campaign after Simon Harris hounded by protest ‘thuggery’ on campaign trail in Westport
GARDAI have confirmed they are investigating after Simon Harris was reportedly pushed and jostled while on the campaign trail in Co Mayo.
A small number of protesters targeted the Taoiseach while he was canvassing in Westport on Sunday.
A Government spokesman said a member of the Garda was also hit during scenes of “thuggery”.
A Garda spokesman said: “Gardai in Mayo are investigating all the circumstances of events which occurred in Westport, Co Mayo, yesterday, 2nd June 2024.
“An Garda Siochana has no further comment at this time.”
Speaking on Sunday, Mr Harris said he would not be deterred from campaigning.
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However, he went on to raise concerns about what he characterised as a growing “toxicity in politics and public life that has been fuelled by a small number of people”.
Mr Harris added: “I don’t think it should be ignored. I think it should be called out.
“It’s why I bristle when people talk about protest because some things are protest and some things are thuggery, and I understand the difference and so do most people in this country and they should never be conflated.
“But I think we should continue to amplify the fact that most people in this country are decent.”
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Separately, the Government has said that it is prepared to bring in new laws to protect politicians from violence, threats and abuse.
Justice Minister Helen McEntee said the move is under consideration after a spate of reported incidents against public representatives - including hoax bomb calls to her home.
She warned: “Any threat to the safety of those in political life, electoral candidates or campaigners is a danger to our democracy and completely unacceptable.
“While the vast majority of interactions that those in political life experience in the course of going about their work or campaigning are fair, friendly and productive, it is clear they are facing increasing levels of personal intrusion and abuse, not just in Ireland but internationally.
“Nobody should have to endure behaviour that goes well beyond legitimate protest and which deliberately seeks to threaten and intimidate those individuals who participate in political life.”
The Minister said there is a wide range of legislation under which attacks, threats and intimidation can be prosecuted including the Non Fatal Offences Against the Persons Act and public order laws.
She added: “If more legislation is required, I have made it clear to the Garda Commissioner that every support, legislative or otherwise, will be provided to An Garda Siochana.”