The Mayor of Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon, Mary O’Dowd, has publicly addressed the sustained online abuse she has endured since taking up the post. The Sinn Féin councillor described the personal attacks as completely unacceptable.

Ms O’Dowd stressed that while robust political disagreement is a healthy part of democracy, there is never any justification for personal abuse or intimidation. She noted that such conduct is toxic and has no place in society.

The mayor added that this experience is not uncommon among women in public life, but it will not silence her. She affirmed her commitment to serving her community and said she would not be intimidated by those seeking to discourage her.