Pride gains are real, but LGBT+ rights in Ireland cannot be taken for granted

It would be a mistake to presume hatred of the LGBT+ community has gone away

‘When staff, students, and visitors approach UCC campus via its Rainbow Walkway, they know that they are in a safe place for LGBT+ people.’ File picture: Daragh Mc Sweeney/Provision

As we come to the end of Pride month, it is heartening to see the tremendous work of activists and allies in Irish schools and universities, workplaces, and supportive environments for the LGBT+ community.

Earlier this month, University College Cork (UCC) launched its LGBT+ Action Plan 2026-28: the first such plan in a higher education institution in Ireland. This plan is not about vague aspirations: it commits UCC to specific actions in support of its LGBT+ staff and students. When staff, students, and visitors approach UCC campus via its Rainbow Walkway, they know that they are in a safe place for LGBT+ people.