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Norris to attend local LGBT event

Irish Senator and gay and civil rights activists David Norris will appear as guest speaker at an LGBT awareness event in The Greville Arms Hotel on Monday April 23 at 4.30pm.

Senator Norris will be joined by the president of the Students Union of Ireland and national LGBT activist, Síona Cahill.

The event is being organised by students from Loreto College Mullingar who hope to start a conversation about LGBT issues among second level students across Ireland, in an attempt to prevent unnecessary stigma and isolation. They are being supported by Deputy Robert Troy, who has secured both Senator Norris and Ms Cahill as speakers.

“I’m delighted to be joining the students of Mullingar to discuss LGBT rights and awareness for young adults,” said Senator Norris. “While Ireland is a far more open society now, a conversation is still required to show students how to be cognisant of their friends and classmates who may be struggling with their sexuality.

“At the same time, I hope to deliver the message that gay and lesbian students are not alone and they can reach out for support at any time – at school, at home, with their friends or if needed by contacting a designated support service.”

Deputy Troy said the LGBT talk is the work and determination of a special group of students who are a credit to their families and school. “In my opinion it is important to facilitate discussions on LGBT rights, especially for students who look to adults for guidance and who are transitioning in life,” he said.

“In my part as facilitator, I reached out to Senator Norris and Síona as I know first-hand how inspirational and respected they are in the LGBT community and at a national level, from Senator Norris overseeing the movement that decriminalised homosexuality to both he and Síona leading the charge for the Yes Equality campaign.

“As someone who campaigned in the Marriage Equality referendum, I look forward to this talk and encourage anyone with an interest to come along,” said Deputy Troy.