LGBT Ireland condemns in the strongest possible terms the recent violent assaults on members of the LGBTQI+ community in Cork and Limerick. These shocking incidents have caused deep distress and fear within our community and underscore the urgent need to actively combat hate and prejudice in Ireland and ensure the safety and dignity of all people.
In Cork, two drag performers were attacked while recording a video on Oliver Plunkett Street during the Cork Jazz Festival weekend. In Limerick, a group of friends were verbally and physically assaulted on Upper William Street, leaving two people requiring hospital treatment.
These attacks are not isolated incidents. They come at a time when we are seeing a worrying rise in hate and hostility directed at LGBTQI+ people and other marginalised communities across Ireland. The recent surge in hate crimes, hate speech, and the spread of online misinformation reflects a broader pattern that affects all of us. An attack on one community is an attack on all of us and the inclusive, respectful Ireland we all strive to build.
We stand in solidarity with all those affected, and with LGBTQI+ community organisations across the country who are directly supporting victims of homophobic and transphobic hate and violence.
Anne Byrne, CEO of LGBT Ireland, said:
“It is an incredibly difficult time for the LGBTQI+ community. These attacks have shaken us, but they have also strengthened our resolve. Rising hate and intolerance have no place in our society. We stand in solidarity with the victims of these assaults, and with all communities in Ireland who have been targeted by hate and violence. Together, through courage, compassion, and unity, we will continue to build an Ireland where everyone can live safely and openly as themselves — with pride and free from hate.”
The Criminal Justice (Hate Offences) Act 2024, which recognises sexual orientation, gender identity, and sex characteristics as protected grounds, represents an important step in strengthening protections for victims of hate crimes. However, LGBT Ireland continues to call for full and effective implementation of the legislation, ensuring robust reporting, thorough investigation, and improved supports for victims.
Beyond the criminal law, there is an urgent need for a National Action Plan Against Hate that addresses the root causes of hate, promotes education and awareness, and strengthens supports for affected communities. There is a need to take further action to tackle incitement to hatred, whether online or offline, including the spread of misinformation and hostile narratives that put marginalised communities at risk.
LGBT Ireland also wishes to remind anyone affected by these events that support is available:
- The LGBT Ireland National Helpline can be reached at 1800 929 539 or through online chat at lgbt.ie.
- Available 7 days a week, from 6.30pm to 10pm Monday to Thursday, from 4pm to 10pm Fridays, and from 4pm to 6pm on Saturday and Sunday.
We encourage anyone who experiences or witnesses hate incidents to report them to An Garda Síochána:
- In an emergency, you must call 999 or 112.
- If it is not an emergency, you can report hate speech or hate crime in any of the following ways:
- At your local Garda station
- By contacting the Garda confidential phone line on 1800 666 111
- Report a hate crime on the Garda website
- If you do not want to go to your local Garda station, you can contact the Garda National Diversity Unit, who will liaise with your local Garda station and help you during the investigation.
- Phone: +353-1-6663150
Email: diversity@garda.ie