Bradshaw appalled after Newry Pride attacks

South Belfast MLA Ms Bradshaw, who attended Saturday’s parade as part of the Alliance delegation, was speaking after the organisers revealed via social media five of their group had been attacked following the parade, during which they had been subjected to homophobic abuse.

Ms Bradshaw said she had been shocked to hear about the incidents.

“I and everyone else who participated in Saturday’s parade had a superb day during the event and it was great to see so many people take to the streets of Newry in order to celebrate Pride. So it was appalling to hear the contrast of several of the organisers being both verbally abused and physically attacked in what appears to be homophobic assaults.

“My thoughts are with those who were injured in this attack and their loved ones. It is outrageous that people believe such attacks are justified purely because of someone’s sexuality. The thugs behind them offer nothing to our society.

“If anyone has information on these incidents, I urge them to contact the police immediately.”