‘It’s easy to say ignore it but we are all human beings at the end of the day and it does hurt’

SALLY HARDING

New candidates putting themselves forward for consideration in the local elections have been on the receiving end of online attacks including racist and misogynistic slurs.
A number of first time and aspiring local representatives have been receiving a barrage of abuse on social media since announcing their intention to run for a seat on Meath County Council. 

While there is no doubting the vital role social media plays in election campaigns with candidates being afforded the opportunity to directly communicate with potential voters, experienced political figures have been taken aback at some of the vitriol aimed at new candidates and have offered advice as how to deal with online trolls.
Minister for Social Protection and Meath East TD Regina Doherty said new hopefuls eager to try and make a difference in our communities don't deserve this introduction to politics but it often comes with the job.

“If I had received comments like the ones posted on some of the social media pages of the new election candidates when I was starting out, it would have made me want to put my head under the pillow and throw in the towel.

"Why would someone want to put themselves through that? Facebook used to be a place that was relatively safe. You might not have been everyone's cup of tea and would get some discourse but most people were respectful. I don't know why but lately it's like a free-for-all.
“I used to think that I could change people's opinions and they would respond differently but you need to remember that normal rational people do not post toxic things about others online.”

Minister Doherty maintains that developing a thick skin goes hand in hand with becoming a politician but it's also crucial not to become immune to the opinions of others. 
“It's important that candidates don't become desensitised to it either because you don't want to lose empathy and emotional reaction, both essential qualities for people representing local people in communities.
“I have found that surrounding yourself with good positive people over time counter-balances the negative. I have met so many amazing people while out canvassing who might challenge me but will always do it with the greatest respect. Those people who abuse you online will usually never say it to your face.”

Cllr Sharon Keogan is adamant that those hoping for a seat need to rise above the vitriol and the only comments to take on board are those of genuine potential voters. 
“It's easy to say ignore it but we are all human beings at the end of the day and it does hurt. Bullying takes place online all of the time. Over the years I have been subjected to it very badly but you just have to keep going and rise above it. 
“It’s very tough when the trolls come out and this is the way some of the bigger parties operate against the independent and smaller parties. If you believe in what you are doing you just have to keep going and try to ignore the haters.

“We are all going out there to do our best and work for the people and for someone to go online and criticise you about the way you look or what you are wearing that day or about something that your party has done it can be very hard.” 
“The only question up for discussion should be, is has that person done enough work in my area to warrant a vote? Nobody is public proof, we can all be taken down at any stage and the public will let you know when you are not doing something right.”