The grim spectacle of face covered individuals placing banners with strong far-right messages on the residence of Roderic O’Gorman, Integration Minister, last week has placed the issue of handling such occurrences back in the public discourse spotlight. The event has drawn widespread outrage and criticism, and Justice Minister Helen McEntee has described it as fittingly “revolting and abhorrent”. She suggested that she will consider implementing new legislation that could potentially outlaw picketing outside politicians’ homes.
The necessity of such laws remains a subject of dispute. The question of the scope of the powers currently in the hands of the gardaí and the precise situations for their employment seems to be causing ambiguity. A directive issued by Garda Commissioner Drew Harris indicated the obligation on the force’s members to act “suitably and sufficiently”. It was additionally mentioned by the Commissioner that the display of banners around residences could be classified as harassment. Such actions, he pointed out, should be evaluated using their current decision-framework, specifically considering the effect on residents, their kin and neighbours.
Members of the Garda Representative Association (GRA) who attended the incident voiced some resistance to these statements during the GRA’s yearly conference held this week. They argued that video footage appearing to display the refusal of the gardaí to interfere was intentionally distorted.
The intent of individuals orchestrating such dramatic demonstrations is unmistakable. They plan to cause division between politicians and their electorate. They will doctor any visual proof of their activities to achieve their aims. Such representations ought to be approached with utmost wariness.
There’s a long-standing custom in Irish society where public figures, particularly politicians, feel free to engage with their local constituents without fearing for their personal safety. There’s an equally cherished practice of keeping the peace by mutual agreement rather than engaging in the adversarial approach of maintaining public order, as seen in other European nations. These cherished customs should be maintained and safeguarded, as should the right to engage in peaceful and legal demonstrations.
Given international behavioural patterns, which have seen a harsh intensification of political dialogue, involving victimisation, imminent harm, assaults, and even homicide, Ireland is not exempt. In light of these unsettling trends, a modification of the security methodology by the Government and the Garda is highly likely to be imminent. If this necessitates the creation of new laws, then that is an acceptable path forward. However, all parties involved should stay cautious about the risk of crossing bounds. The individuals responsible for the hostile disturbances around Roderic O’Gorman’s residence clearly hold no regard for basic civil behaviours or democratic principles. Whilst contending with their toxic deeds, it’s paramount the State preserves its own ethical standards and principles.