Statement by Tánaiste to mark IDAHOT 2020

Statement by Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Simon Coveney, T.D on International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia

“Every year, the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia reminds us of the need to confront the violence and discrimination experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex people. That need has become even more important in 2020, as we deal with the consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic. All too often, LGBTI+ persons are discriminated against, subject to violence, and even killed, merely for who they are. Now they must face additional challenges in securing access to health care services, essential medicines and income and food supports.

“In 2020, it is not enough to condemn the discrimination and violence experienced by LGBTI+ people. At home, we launched Irelands’ National LGBTI+ Inclusion Strategy last November, to promote inclusion, protect rights and improve the quality of life and wellbeing of LGBTI+ people. Globally, we are equally committed to advocating for the rights of LGBTI+ persons wherever they are. In pursuit of this objective, we joined the Equal Rights Coalition last June and we will continue to work with and for LGBTI+ people to eradicate the intolerance and discrimination they still endure.”