Frances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I take this opportunity to express my solidarity with Councillors Tania Doyle and Janet Horner. Janet was attacked last night while putting up posters and Tania and her husband were attacked recently by what I would call a racist while erecting her election posters. Some months ago, Councillor Hugh Lewis had a brick thrown through his window in an effort to intimidate him because of his support for the local refugee community. These are dedicated community activists who work so hard and who are placed in great danger by the emboldened far right. There are videos circulating online now of far-right activists harassing and following politicians and candidates in a threatening and predatory fashion. These people are saying all sorts of unhinged, hateful and conspiratorial nonsense. These figures claim to oppose the establishment but they are almost entirely focused on attacking Opposition parties of the left and Independent candidates who reject divisive and cruel rhetoric. Racist violence and intimidation has become a really significant threat to public safety and the democratic process. It is a very worrying situation. It is incredibly upsetting to see people online, including some election candidates, attacking candidates for their nationality or the colour of their skin. These candidates have made huge contributions to their local communities and this country and are bravely putting themselves forward for election but are receiving really awful racist abuse as a result. This is not the Ireland I know. Irish people have watched with horror as racist and authoritarian politics has gained ground throughout Europe and in the US and now we face a similar crisis. If we do not stand united against this hatred, our political discourse will be polluted by racism, lies and conspiracy theories, which is really worrying. I want to express my sympathy, support and solidarity to all the people running in the elections who are facing abuse. The same goes to all of the candidates who are campaigning under the banner of inclusive, democratic politics, who are standing up against the people peddling cruelty, fear and division. They should be proud of their contribution to our democratic process, which is vitally important.

Finally, I want to send my condolences to Senator Rebecca Moynihan on the passing of her mother. I just want to let her family know that we are all thinking of them.