Gay Rose of Tralee winner ‘would have been accepted 10 years ago’

New Rose of Tralee Maria Walsh has suggested a gay winner of the competition would have been accepted "10 years ago" if the opportunity arose.

Gay Rose of Tralee winner ‘would have been accepted 10 years ago’

Speaking to the Irish Examiner as part of a small number of weekend interviews on the matter, the 27-year-old stressed that despite some critics claiming the popular contest represents an out-dated version of Irish culture, officials have been entirely welcoming of her news.

While she confirmed that organisers did not know about her sexuality until a newspaper request for an interview on the subject occurred — despite initial suggestions to the contrary — the Mayo-raised Rose said she was assured it made no difference to the role.

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