'I've had abuse shouted at me four times in the last week' - Green Party leader on aggression towards politicians as election looms

"I've had abuse shouted at me on four of my canvasses in the last week alone, so it had died down after the local elections, it is ramping up again now, it is concerning," he said. This reflects growing tension and hostility in public political discourse as the election approaches.

"I think it's a mix (of targeted and opportunistic efforts). I personally have always tried to focus on the job at hand ... but I do think we are going to have to have a discussion about what is acceptable in our public dialogue, and our political dialogue, and I do think we have to think about some of what is said in the Dail, and the rhetoric that gets stirred up there as well." This emphasizes the need for a reassessment of political rhetoric as tensions rise.

"Some of the language that is used there and some of the implications of, if you're for this, or against this, where you stand in Irish society, is quite troubling, and I would call on all politicians just to consider the level of rhetoric they use in the course of this campaign." This highlights concerns about divisive language in political debate.

"However, a new pre-election poll has indicated the former two may be able to form a government on their own after the next election." This points to significant shifts in party dynamics and potential changes in governance following the elections.

Read at Irish Independent