IRELAND
More than 600 Irish Public Servants took part in Dublin’s Pride Parade — the first time there has been a formal representation from the bureaucracy.
PS employees marching included those from various Government Departments, the Gardaí (police), the Irish Prison Service, the Courts Service and the National Museum of Ireland.
Heads of State Agencies and LGBTQ+ staff networks from across the Public Service took part.
Minister for Justice, Charlie Flanagan said he was particularly pleased with the participation of Gardaí in uniform in this year’s parade.
“This is a significant step that demonstrates the Gardaí’s commitment to building the inclusive Ireland that we all want to see, where everyone, regardless of their background, feels welcome in our society,” Mr Flanagan said.
However, there was controversy surrounding uniformed Gardaí taking part, with Queer Action Ireland organising an alternative Pride event to protest against it.
Officers from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) also took part at the invitation of Gardaí Commissioner, Drew Harris.
Deputy Chief Constable of the PSNI, Stephen Martin said Pride was an important series of events for those who identified as being LGBTQ+.
“We see this as an opportunity to continue to support, and build upon our relationship with, the LGBTQ community and our colleagues in the Gardaí,” Deputy Chief Constable Martin said.
It was estimated about 60,000 people took part in the march.
Dublin, 30 June 2019
