South Kildare Cllr resigns from Fine Gael with allegations that attempts were made to 'silence, harass and undermine'

A Fine Gael County Cllr in Co Kildare is after resigning with allegations that attempts were made within the party to  'silence, harass and undermine '.

South Kildare Cllr Fiona  McLoughlin Healy has handed in her resignation to Fine Gael.

On social media she said: "I know, having spoken to a lot of women in politics over the last couple of years, that I am not alone in my experience either inside or outside Fine Gael. This year we celebrate the centenary of the first time women were allowed to vote in Ireland and stand in Dáil elections. We have come so far, yet, not far enough. Women, if and when they succeed in overcoming massive obstacles to getting selected and elected, are reluctant to speak out about bad behaviour for fear of being viewed as weak. They are even reticent to support other female politicians who speak out for fear of recriminations from their typically male-dominated party, their male colleagues, or from their party members, all of whom they rely on for votes, for canvassing and for support in Council or Dáil chambers."

She plans to continue as an Independent Cllr.

Cllr McLoughlin Healy said: "It has been a very intense, and at times, very difficult four years since I was first persuaded to run. I want to thank my family, friends and my supporters for your enduring support and loyalty particularly during the most difficult times. You are the reason I do what I do. You make it worthwhile. For that, I am hugely grateful."