HARVEST TIME: Service users Andrew Alade and Jessica O’Connell from the Kerry Parents and Friends Association (KPFA) proudly displaying the results of their spring vegetable planting in Kilcummin. Included in the photo are Sheila O’Sullivan (Kilcummin Looking Good), Helen Moynihan (Kilcummin Looking Good), Catriona Maloney Johnson (KPFA), Jessica O’Connell (KPFA), Batt Stewart Healy (KPFA), and Andrew Alade (KPFA). Photo: Patricia O’Mahony

Healy-Rae calls for discussion following Dublin attack

Independent TD Michael Healy-Rae is back in Kerry following an assault in Dublin on Wednesday afternoon, calling for a “robust conversation on toxicity” directed towards public representatives.

Gardaí confirmed that officers from Kevin Street responded to an incident on Cork Street shortly after 4pm on September 16. A male motorist in his late 50s was approached and assaulted by a lone male while stopped in traffic.
The Kerry deputy was taken to Kevin Street Station and subsequently treated at St Vincent’s Hospital. His injuries were confirmed as non-life-threatening.
Following the incident, Deputy Healy-Rae thanked emergency services, hospital staff, and well-wishers across the country.
“Whatever the intention behind this attack, I will not be deterred from continuing my work or from representing the people of Kerry to the very best of my ability,” Healy-Rae stated.
“However, we do need to have a serious conversation about the growing toxicity directed towards politicians and public representatives. Disagreement and robust political debate are entirely legitimate, but personal abuse, intimidation and violence can never be accepted or normalised in a democratic society.”
He added: “I’m back in Kerry, I look forward to getting back to work in the coming days and trust the Gardaí will find the perpetrator and bring him to justice.”