In a historic first, Minister Katherine Zappone becomes the first openly lesbian member of the Irish Cabinet.
“We offer our warmest congratulations to Minister Zappone and Minister Varadkar. Their positions in Cabinet send a very strong signal that LGBT people can aspire to and achieve the highest political office in Ireland,” said Kieran Rose, GLEN co-Chair.
“We are pleased that the Programme for Government commits to foster greater inclusion, equality and empowerment of LGBT young people. This new Government now has a real opportunity to build on the phenomenal progress of the last year to make further transformative strides towards equality for LGBT people.
“Real challenges remain, in particular to the mental health and well-being of LGBTI people, including LGBTI young people, as the recent The LGBTIreland Report outlined. Action is needed across all areas of Government to address these urgent challenges.”
While these challenges’ significance has not been diminished, it is great to have another member of the LGBT+ community represented in a ministerial position. It’s only a matter of time before we have an LGBT+ Taoiseach!
© 2016 GCN (Gay Community News). All rights reserved.
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