President Higgins: 'Lethargy' in addressing homophobia stopping citizens feeling equal

President Higgins said: "When it comes to behaviour, we still hear far too regularly of members of the gay community being faced with homophobic comments and slurs, often unchallenged. 

Ireland still has a way to go when it comes to LGBTQI+ citizens feeling truly equal, with a "lethargy" through society stopping people from feeling safe enough to be their authentic selves.

That is one of the messages from President Michael D Higgins, who was speaking following a traumatic week for the LGBTQI+ community in Ireland due to a wave of violence.