Adams congratulates Lesbian and Gay Pride organisers
Sinn Féin president and MP for West Belfast Gerry Adams has congratulated the organisers of this year's Belfast Lesbian and Gay Pride Festival. Recognising the need for affirmative action in tackling discrimination against the lesbian and gay community, Adams said: ``The Pride Festival is an important event during which the lesbian and gay community highlight their concerns, needs and aspirations. I want to congratulate the organisers of this year's Belfast Pride Festival. It is by far the most varied and well organised series of events to date.
``It is important those of us in positions of political and civic leadership pay attention to what is said during the many events which have taken place this week. We need to learn about the needs of the lesbian and gay community and address those needs in our day to day work.
``Sinn Féin has for many years committed itself to placing the question of lesbian and gay equality at the centre of our approach to equality matters generally. Our party believes that it has a responsibility to work on these issues and remains open and acceptable to any lesbian and gay support organisations who would seek our support or assistance.
``I would also like to mention that the West Belfast Festival will be hosting its own Pride event, titled `Irish, Queer and Equal' which is an indication of the growing support that lesbian and gay equality has within the broader community. I wish all those involved in the festival good luck.''
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