Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

When the term cyberbullying is used, most people think it refers solely to children and teenagers. This is a misconception. The harassment and abuse of adults, particularly public figures, can be equally cruel and damaging. Those involved in high profile roles in media, entertainment, sports, medicine, teaching, politics and even the church are considered to be immune to the vitriol thrown at them on a regular basis. There is an illusion among some people that well-known individuals are unaffected by name-calling and hateful comments and should somehow be able to handle it.

I believe our House has a role to play. Political leaders must act to curb the crude, vicious and scurrilous attacks on political opponents. Many of these social media warriors are out of control and need to be reined in. A pattern develops where the same cowards repeatedly pop up to peddle hateful, offensive and malicious commentary. This brand of political support should be banished. Any party or organisation with a morsel of self-respect would not tolerate or condone this shameful activity. Our country requires further legislation and regulation to deal effectively with these messengers of disruption.

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