Waterford TD 'genuinely worried' after car vandalised with screwdriver

An alleged vandalism attack on one Minister for State’s car, in Waterford, has left them with “genuine worry”.

Minister of State and Fianna Fáil TD for Waterford, Mary Butler, has said she has increased her personal security in the last 18 months, due to concerns around her personal security.

She has also said that this is the biggest challenge she faces in her role. 

Minister Butler’s car was allegedly vandalised in Waterford city while she was giving a speech on International Women’s Day. 

Gardaí are investigating the allegation which saw one of her tyres damaged while parked in Barker Street of the city.

“Being a politician in current times brings challenges. The biggest challenge I face doing a job that I love is dealing with personal safety concerns,” Ms Butler said.

“It is a genuine worry that I and many other politicians, especially female politicians, deal with every day of the week while we are doing our work,” she said.

She added that she has dealt with death threats, abusive text messages and being targeted by the far right at events and at constituency offices.

It is understood that the right rear tyre of Ms Butler’s car was badly damaged, possibly by a screwdriver. She was made aware of the incident through a social media post.

Gardaí confirmed that investigations are ongoing after they received a report of a suspected criminal damage incident, in which a car was damaged.

They have appealed for anyone with information to contact Waterford garda station or the Garda confidential line on 1800 666 111.