Attacks on TDs can't be the 'end of canvassing' as Taoiseach confirms November election
by Louise Burne · Irish MirrorA Fianna Fáil Minister has stated that attacks or aggression towards politicians cannot constitute “the end of canvassing”. It comes as Green Minister Catherine Martin called for politicians to show each other more “respect” in the Dáil.
However, politicians' days in Leinster House are now limited. TDs were informed that Thursday may be their last day, and Taoiseach Simon Harris confirmed the election will be held “this month.”
Concerns about TDs’ safety have grown in recent days as a salesman admitted assaulting Green Party leader Roderic O’Gorman while he was canvassing.
Karl Ronan, 45, with an address at Erris Square, Waterville, Blanchardstown, pleaded guilty to the offence when he appeared at Blanchardstown District Court in west Dublin on Monday morning.
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When he appeared before Judge David McHugh, Mr Ronan faced three charges and pleaded guilty to them all through his solicitor.
He was also charged with a public order offence on the same date. He was alleged to have used or engaged in threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour with intent to provoke a breach of the peace or being reckless as to whether a breach of the peace might have been occasioned.
The third charge was that on the same date, he damaged a clipboard belonging to Minister O’Gorman.
On RTÉ’s News at One, Mr O’Gorman did not address the case but stated that he believes an election will be called this week.
Speaking at Dalymount Park this morning, Green Minister Catherine Martin said the incident involving her party leader “goes against what we really cherish here in democracy”.
Asked if she believed vitriol against the Greens was being fueled by Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and some independent TDs targeting them, Ms Martin said more respect needed to be shown across the board.
“It’s not just the Green Party. We've seen all political parties, not just government parties, actually, as well. It's right across the Dáil and Seanad. I always think on the floor of the Dáil, if we treat each other with respect, that's the greatest way we can tackle it.”
Fianna Fáil Minister of State Thomas Byrne said that any reports of aggressive behaviour need to be reported to the Gardaí.
He added: “I wouldn't like people to think this is the end of canvassing. It can't be. It is so important we have that connection with the public, where you can go to a door. Yes, people can praise you, or, yes, people can criticise you or ask you questions. That's what democracy is.”
Meanwhile, the Taoiseach confirmed that the election will be held in November. During an appearance on The 2 Johnnies’ podcast, Mr Harris was asked when the general election will be.
He responded: “Very shortly. This month.” Mr Harris has repeatedly stated that he wants the election to occur on a Friday. However, the need for a three-week campaign now makes Friday, November 29 the only viable date.
It was now expected that the Taoiseach could ask President Michael D Higgins to dissolve the Dáil this week. He is travelling to Budapest on Thursday afternoon and may return Friday afternoon, meaning the election could be called before or after his trip.
TDs and their staff were informed on Monday morning that they could no longer submit parliamentary questions to ministers.
“Please note that if, as we all now assume, Thursday is the final sitting day of the current Dáil, the deadline has now passed for Thursday's final Question Paper,” the email read.
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