A suspected homophobic assault on two students in Limerick city has been “utterly condemned” by an LGBTQI+ advocacy and support organisation, reports RTE.
The incident occurred on Upper William Street on Wednesday night when a group of friends was attacked, reports RTE.
Both victims were taken to hospital for treatment and are described as “deeply shaken”, according to GOSHH (Gender Orientation Sexual Health HIV).
In a statement, GOSHH said that several men began shouting homophobic insults at the group before going on to “kick and punch several members,” reports RTE.
“We are under no illusion whatsoever that this attack is a ‘once off’ incident,” said Verena Tarpey, CEO of GOSHH, reports RTE.
“As a society, we would like to believe this is the case – however, this is not the reality,” reports RTE.
She added that harassment and violence towards members of the LGBTQI+ community “is a crime but still remains largely under-reported,” reports RTE.
Gardaà have confirmed they are investigating an assault that happened at around 11.30pm on Wednesday.
They said a woman in her 20s sustained non-life-threatening injuries during the incident, reports RTE.
The attack comes just a month after it was announced that Limerick and Clare had secured the bid to host EuroPride 2028.
EuroPride, which celebrates inclusion and diversity, is Europe’s largest Pride event — and this marks the first time it will take place on the island of Ireland, reports RTE.
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