New MSP Natalie blasts cyber trolls over abuse
Politician sent vile messages after first Holyrood speech
A new MSP has hit back at vile trolls for pounding her with online abuse following her maiden speech in the Scottish Parliament.
Natalie Don, who was voted in as the Renfrewshire North and West MSP last month, delivered a speech on tackling poverty in a debate about eradicating deprivation and building a fairer country.
But, shortly after footage of her words was shared on social media, the SNP politician began receiving a stream of comments branding her “stupid”, “embarrassing” and “out of her depth”.
Others described her as a “gravy train passenger” and “anglophobic”, while Miss Don claimed she received sexist and ageist messages that were sent directly to her.
Miss Don - who remains a councillor for Bishopton, Bridge of Weir and Langbank - said she had never been subjected to so much abuse, but insisted her confidence had not been knocked by keyboard warriors.
“As an elected representative for several years now, I’m used to receiving criticism, which is mostly constructive, from some people who disagree with my views or SNP policies,” she told the Express.
“I welcome such debate as it shows our democracy is healthy and thriving in Scotland.
“It’s really disappointing, h ow e v e r, to see the condescending, sexist and ageist online abuse I’ve received in messages from anonymous online trolls who don’t appear to be very happy that, in my first parliamentary speech, I called out the disastrous decision- making by out- of- touch Westminster politicians consigning people in Renfrewshire North and West and across Scotland to living in poverty.
“I have started my work in parliament as I mean to go on – fighting the corner of my constituents experiencing poverty and I will not be put off my stride by anyone who cannot cope with me speaking my mind.”
After securing a landslide victory in May’s election, Miss Don - who grew up in a council house - used her first speech to assure residents who were struggling to make ends meet that she had their back in the chamber.
While highlighting the impact poverty has on several communities she represents from Kilmacolm to Renfrew, she argued the Scottish Government needed further powers to be able to tackle the issue fully.
I will not be put off my stride by anyone who cannot cope with me speaking my mind