Thomas Gould (Cork North-Central, Sinn Fein)

As the Minister of State knows, Pride is a protest. In recent years, we have seen companies and large multinationals join Pride. In many ways, that has been welcome and positive for those who work in those companies. It sends out a positive message that they are accepted and recognised as a part of these companies, and that their workplaces are safe. That is a good thing for those people. However, in all the positivity, we cannot lose sight of the fact that Pride is a protest.

There are Irishmen walking the streets today who were previously convicted of being gay. We must protest that, and change it. When our trans brothers and sisters are attacked in the British courts and the American Parliament, we must protest. When young gay men and women are attacked on our streets, we must protest.

In recent years, I have spoken to members of the LGBTQI community in Cork. They have told me they feel less safe on the streets now, which is a shocking thing to hear. We need to tackle that.

In 2006 in Derry, there was an upsurge in homophobic attacks. The following year, the then junior minister, Ian Paisley Junior MLA, gave an interview to Hot Press in which he said he was repulsed by homosexuality. Can you imagine a junior minister saying that? In response, Deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness MLA, launched Gay Pride in Derry. In the first year, homophobic attacks reduced by 80%. That is what political leadership can do. That is what Pride can do when people stand together. I am proud to be a part of a party for which Martin McGuinness led the way. Eighteen years ago, he stood up for his community because he believed it to be under attack. He did not do so because it would win votes. He did so because he had a vision of this island that was inclusive, welcoming and equal to all.

Republican LGBTQI activist Seán Garland from Belfast said: "You cannot just stand for a certain section of liberty. You must defend the liberation of the whole nation." Ní neart go cur le chéile. There is no strength without unity.

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