‘Misogyny in politics isn’t just disgusting, it’s dangerous’ – Meath councillor speaks out after online abuse
A Meath councillor has spoken out about misogyny in politics after facing what she described as “targeted, gendered” abuse on social media for raising concerns about coastal erosion along the Laytown–Bettystown coastline.
Fine Gael councillor Sharon Tolan said she woke to more than 100 hostile comments after highlighting what she described as a serious public safety issue.
Some of the messages included sexist remarks, with one reading: “Get back to the kitchen, you retarded c**t”.
“Misogyny in politics and on social media isn’t just disgusting—it’s dangerous,” Cllr Tolan said in a social media post.
“It chips away at women’s confidence, safety, and sense of belonging in public life. It sends a message that when women speak up, they will be punished for it.”
She added: “For women in politics, the abuse can often be relentless. It’s not just criticism — it’s targeted, gendered hostility meant to remind them that their presence in power is still being ‘questioned’".
“Behind screens, some feel emboldened to unleash hatred they would never voice in person. The aim is clear: to silence, to intimidate, to shrink women’s voices.”
Despite the attacks, Cllr Tolan said she would not be deterred from raising issues affecting her community.
“Women do not break that easily. Women in public life show up again and again, even when it’s hard,” she said.
“Our courage becomes the path for the next generation. That has never been more important than it is now.”
The comments followed Cllr Tolan’s called for urgent action to tackle accelerating coastal erosion, which she said is now threatening public infrastructure and safety.
During an inspection of the Laytown coastline, she observed erosion encroaching on public lighting, footpaths, and nearby gardens and properties.
“More frequent and intense storms are accelerating the problem, leaving structures such as lighting poles and pathways exposed,” she said.
“The evidence is right in front of us: the land is slipping away. We need coastal protection works fast-tracked — not talked about, but delivered.”
Cllr Tolan is urging Meath County Council and relevant national bodies to accelerate assessments, approvals, and funding so coastal defence measures can proceed without further delay.
“Our community deserves a safe, secure, and protected coastline. We owe it to residents, local businesses, and future generations to act now, before the damage becomes irreversible,” she said.
She also called on the public to challenge misogyny "wherever” it occurs.
“Make our online and political spaces safe, fair, and respectful. Because when women’s voices are silenced, democracy suffers,” Cllr Tolan added.