THE GOVERNMENT CHIEF whip Hildegarde Naughton has told a court she was “frightened” for her personal safety and had to reassess her movements after she was allegedly subjected to threats online.
Naughton was giving evidence today at Galway District Court at the hearing of a case against Daragh O’Flaherty.
O’Flaherty (47), with an address at 28 New Estate, Clarinbridge, Co Galway denies committing offences contrary to Section 4 of the Harassment, Harmful Communications and Related Offences Act 2020.
In the case, it is alleged that on 9 January and 10 January 2024, Daragh O’Flaherty did distribute or publish a threatening or grossly offensive communication about Hildegarde Naughton, with intent to cause harm.
Two further charges allege that on 9 January and 10 January, O’ Flaherty did distribute or publish a threatening or grossly offensive communication about Fine Gael Senator, Seán Kyne, with intent to cause harm.
In her evidence, Naughton …