Over 50% Of County Councillors Consider Leaving Because Of Abuse

A midlands councillor says this type of behaviour will drive people away from local politics.

A new report shows over half of county and city councillors are considering leaving their role because of the abuse.

The survey by the Association of Irish Local Government - a representative body for councillors - found almost one in ten had received death threats, while 7 per cent had received a threat of sexual violence.

Mayor of Athlone, Fianna Fáil's Aengus O'Rourke says he has his own experience of people shouting at him on the street, notes being left on his car window and abusive text messages.

He says it's driving people away from taking up positions in politics:

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