Fintan Warfield (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Like Senators Boylan and Hoey, I wish everyone a happy Pride. Homophobia and transphobia seem to be on the rise. This year, I am thinking about the folk in Waterford and across the island who are standing up and resisting homophobia and transphobia. It is an important and inspirational show of strength from our community and our allies. Pride is a moment to stand together, share experiences and break silences.

HIV stigma affects people with and without HIV. Does the House know that people who are on effective treatment cannot pass HIV on to their sexual partners? People should stand up to stigma and know their status.

We must listen to young people who are telling us that they are not getting sufficient relationships and sexuality education, RSE. RSE should be age appropriate but it should also be holistic and inclusive, empowering and protective of all young people. Change is urgently required in this regard. I hope that we will not be here next year still waiting on that change.

I wish everyone a safe, happy and healthy Pride and I look forward to getting back on the streets with our community and our allies and sharing our love with the city because an army of lovers cannot lose.