It truly is ‘Time to Ditch the Witch’ Reporter: '); '); It is unsurprising that the language used in the cut and thrust of politics can be insulting, but when it moves beyond what anyone might deem as acceptable it becomes abusive and threatening. Some of this language we recognise immediately as dangerous. It is essential that we all call it out as such. Other language used around politicians may not be dangerous. But it can be just as effective at reinforcing gender stereotypes about who our politicians should be. Just this week we see the Mayor of Galway City Council, Councillor Mike Hubbard stepping back from his role following the escalation of threats made against him and his family. Also reported in the last few days is that the Gardaí recently increased armed security around Tánaiste Leo Varadkar.