Ellen Coyne: Poisonous ideology is casting politicians as enemies of the people

Troubling abuse of those we have elected has little to do with politics

Justice Minister Helen McEntee's home was evacuated after a bomb threat. Photo: PA

Ellen Coyne

If you had to evacuate your house with your small children, how would you explain it to them? You might try to make it a game, to protect the sanctity and safety they should feel in their home. You might be careful to keep the fear out of your voice, as you quickly gather a bag of their things and sell them the last-minute plan for a surprise sleepover at a relative’s house.

When Justice Minister Helen McEntee’s family had to flee their home on foot of a bomb threat, they were left with the task of having to find a way to explain to children a disturbing trend that is becoming increasingly difficult for even adults to understand.