Watershed for women

THE latest claims about the bullying of staff by former Gate Theatre boss Michael Colgan, in yesterday’s Irish Times, will rightly leave those who have behaved appallingly over the years fearful of exposure. Mr Colgan’s apparent treatment of women seems emblematic of the toxic masculinity they face on a daily basis, as they are subjected to belittling comments often laden with innuendo, and unwelcome physical contact. While at the other end of the scale, the Harvey Weinstein case opened floodgates across the world as women – and men – finally feel they will be believed when they report workplace aggression and even assault. We must be careful not to rush to judgment on anyone when the atmosphere is this febrile but if the conversation means women can work without fear of unwanted aggression, then good.