Henry Street Garda station in Limerick is set to make history this weekend as it becomes the first in Ireland to fly a rainbow flag during the city’s gay pride parade.

The move is said to have been an initiative of the local Gardaí, who have “very proactive in reaching out to the gay community”, according to Limerick Pride Chairperson Dave Cuddihy, who said he was “taken aback by the gesture”.

In a statement to TheJournal.ie,  Chief Superintendent David Sheahan stressed the importance of LGBT people being comfortable reporting any troubling incidents, adding that they have set up a special email address to allow safe and discrete reporting during this Saturday’s parade and beyond.

Garda Diane McAuley, who is the appointed LGBT Liason Officer for Henry Street Garda station, and can be reached via email or by telephone at 061-433-538.

“Flying the flag is a means of showing our recognition and support of the LGBT community as they pass by Henry Street Garda station, and in particular, we are sending a message to report any homophobic, transphobic, violent, abusive or threatening behaviour”, Sheahan added.