LGBTQ+ Community Organisations respond to shocking Phoenix Park incident

LGBTQ+ community organisations have expressed deep concern about the recent violent incidents in Phoenix Park, where, in two separate incidents, four gay men were allegedly targeted because of their sexuality.

One incident involved three gay men being chased by six men with weapons.

Two separate attacks were reported to LGBT Ireland and Outhouse LGBTQ+ Centre, and their social care teams have reached out and say they are available to support those directly affected by these traumatic events.

They are urging the public to respect the privacy of the victims at this time.

LGBTQ+ community organisations are liaising with the Garda National Diversity and Integration Unit regarding the unsatisfactory Garda response to the attack and are working to ensure appropriate support is put in place for the victims.

In a statement, LGBTQ+ Community Organisations said:

“These attacks are shocking but not surprising.

“According to An Garda Síochána’s 2023 Hate Crime Data and Related Discriminatory Motives report, there has been a 12% increase in hate crimes reported, with LGBTQ+ individuals being among the three most targeted groups.

“This incident underscores the urgent need for systemic change to protect vulnerable communities.

“It is imperative that the promised Criminal Justice (Incitement to Violence or Hatred and Hate Offences) Bill 2022, commonly referred to as the Hate Crime Bill, be progressed without delay.

“Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee, along with other senior government figures, assured the public that it would be enacted by Christmas 2023 following the far-right driven riots in Dublin last November; however, six months have passed, and we are no closer to achieving this, with the Bill stalled in the Seanad.

“The delay is unacceptable and the continued absence of this much-needed, promised legislation endangers the lives of vulnerable communities.

The Minister for Justice must take immediate action.

“The delay in Hate Crime legislation is inexcusable. It is time to reject contrived ‘culture war’ attacks on the Bill and prioritise the safety and rights of all citizens and progress the legislation without delay.

“Additionally, more Gardaí with appropriate diversity training in supporting marginalised and vulnerable people are needed to effectively support and protect our communities. However, calls for increased patrols are futile without the necessary people-power.

“The Garda Diversity Officers are stretched thin, often diverted to plug gaps in other units, which leaves the communities they are meant to serve without adequate support.

There is a significant reduction in Garda presence relative to the population, highlighting a decade-long lack of investment in essential public services.

“In 2013, Ireland had 11,293 Gardaí; by 2023, this number had only increased to 12,009. The current plans of Government to grow Garda numbers are insufficient and require significant scaling up to tackle this multifaceted challenge.

“We need to get tough on the causes of crime, invest in community development, and support all of our communities to thrive and reduce crime in our society overall.

“We urge anyone with information about the Phoenix Park incident to contact the Detective Office in Cabra Garda Station on 01-666-7412.

“For those affected by this news or seeking support, you can contact the National LGBT Helpline at 1800-929-539 or reach out to Outhouse LGBTQ+ Centre at 01-873-4999 or drop into the centre at 105 Capel Street, Dublin 1, D01 R290.

“Our community must stand together to ensure such incidents are met with decisive action and that all individuals can live without fear.”