Michael Healy-Rae issues statement after attack: "We need to have a serious conversation about the growing toxicity directed towards politicians"

Michael Healy-Rae has issued a statement following his assault on Cork Street on Wednesday. The Kerry TD was attacked by a lone man just after 4pm, when his car was stopped in traffic.

Healy-Rae was removed from the car by Gardaí, who then transported him to Kevin Street Garda station, where an ambulance was called.

Healy-Rae was treated in St. Vincent's University Hospital, where he received stitches for a head wound. He was disharged around 9 pm.

The independent TD has released a statement about the incident.

"Whatever the intention behind this attack, I will not be deterred from continuing my work or from representing the people of Kerry to the very best of my ability.

"However, we do need to have a serious conversation about the growing toxicity directed towards politicians and public representatives.

"Disagreement and robust political debate are entirely legitimate, but personal abuse, intimidation and violence can never be accepted or normalised in a democratic society."

pic.twitter.com/qzJcH4aK6V

— Michael Healy-Rae (@MHealyRae) September 17, 2026

He had been in Leinster House earlier in the day, and was returning home when the incident occurred.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin condemned the attack in a statement.

"Deeply shocked and concerned by the assault on Michael Healy-Rae this afternoon.

"I have sent my best regards to Michael and his family this evening and wished him a full recovery from his injuries.

"It is worth repeating. Violence has no place in a democracy, and those elected to represent the people must be allowed to do their work without fear of abuse or assault."

Michael Healy-Rae is currently recuperating at his home in Kilgarvan, Co. Kerry. He is expected to return to work in a number of days.

No arrests have being made following the attack.