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26/10/2023
DUP Urged To Take Action Over Cllr's 'Homophobic Comments'
The Alliance party has called on the leadership of the DUP to take action against a councillors over alleged homophobic comments linking LGBTQ+ people with terrorists.
According to the Alliance Party, DUP Councillor Colin Kennedy made the comments linking LGBTQ+ people with Hamas during a meeting of Ards and North Down Borough Council on Wednesday, 25 October. The comments went unchallenged by DUP Mayor Jennifer Gilmour, despite attempts to by Alliance representatives on the night.
An Alliance spokesperson said: "Alliance is disgusted by not only the intent to link the LGBTQ+ community to a terrorist organisation, but also Councillor Kennedy's decision to outright ridicule the entire LGBTQ+ community in such a public forum.
"It is now urgent DUP leadership take immediate action to show the party will not accept such blatant homophobia within its ranks. Such comments have no place in any society, especially from those in a position of responsibility such as elected representatives.
"Any mainstream party anywhere else in these islands would have suspended this Councillor by now, particularly given it is not the first time he has been involved in controversy. The DUP must outline immediately if it is intending on taking the same action."
According to the Alliance Party, DUP Councillor Colin Kennedy made the comments linking LGBTQ+ people with Hamas during a meeting of Ards and North Down Borough Council on Wednesday, 25 October. The comments went unchallenged by DUP Mayor Jennifer Gilmour, despite attempts to by Alliance representatives on the night.
An Alliance spokesperson said: "Alliance is disgusted by not only the intent to link the LGBTQ+ community to a terrorist organisation, but also Councillor Kennedy's decision to outright ridicule the entire LGBTQ+ community in such a public forum.
"It is now urgent DUP leadership take immediate action to show the party will not accept such blatant homophobia within its ranks. Such comments have no place in any society, especially from those in a position of responsibility such as elected representatives.
"Any mainstream party anywhere else in these islands would have suspended this Councillor by now, particularly given it is not the first time he has been involved in controversy. The DUP must outline immediately if it is intending on taking the same action."
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
