Irish HIV sufferers complain of bias

A STRIKING 95% of Irish HIV sufferers feel discriminated against because of their status, according to the preliminary findings of a recent European-wide survey.

In Ireland, 15 people lost their jobs at the time of the survey because of their HIV status, more than 46% of people were discriminated against in the workplace and 50% of respondents had trouble getting life assurance and mortgage protection policies.

In April, 2003, the European Network of Sexual Health (ENSH) issued the questionnaire on discrimination experienced by those living with HIV/AIDS.