McDowell: Anti-gay actions unhelpful

ANTI-GAY protestors violently barracked Justice Minister Michael McDowell yesterday as he spoke at a conference on the legal status of same-sex couples.

Up to six people, some claiming to be members of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, threw a glass jug, pens, cups of water and a copy of the Irish Constitution at Mr McDowell in what he described as a “mini-riot.”

The protestors attempted to shout down the Minister for 10 minutes, chanting “shame, shame” and anti-gay remarks.