A South Dublin County councillor has claimed she was told to "go back to Sweden" while she was canvassing.
Councillor Madeleine Johansson said she was delivering leaflets this afternoon when the shocking comment was directed at her.
The Clondalkin rep has lived in Ireland for over a decade and has served as a councillor since 2016.
The Swedish woman said this was the first time she had ever received any negative comments from constituents about the fact she is a foreign national.
She said: "I was hoping that I'd be able to say at the end of the campaign that my experience was 100% positive.
"While it hurts to have those things said to you I won't let it get to me.
"I know that the vast majority of Irish people think it's great that someone like me is involved in politics and regardless of what happens in the election I will continue to fight to make Ireland a better country for everyone."
Locals were quick to offer there support after Councillor Johansson shared her story on Facebook.
Louise Marie said: "I'm Irish and they don't speak for me..keep up the good work!"
Jen Clancy added: "Thankfully most of us in Clondalkin don't feel that way about you."
Dublin City Councillor Hazel de Nortuin also offered words of encouragement to her fellow public rep.
She said: "You're a great committed woman fighting for what you know is right.
"You've never been disrespectful to anyone - going back years before we were both Councillors so I'm sorry you experienced this.
"Solidarity with you and you'll be getting mine and my whole extended families vote!!"
Councillor Johansson is running as a candidate in the Palmerstown-Fonthill electoral area.
Voting in the local elections will take place on Friday, May 24.
