Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council has sent a strong message of support for LGBTQ+ citizens, Alliance Councillor Eóin Tennyson has said, after successfully bringing a motion to fly the rainbow flag from civic buildings to mark Pride.

The flag will fly from the building on August 3, coinciding with the Belfast Pride parade, after Councillor Tennyson’s proposal, seconded by party colleague Brian Pope, was passed at full Council with support from Alliance, Sinn Féin, the SDLP and two Ulster Unionists.

“I am delighted that ABC Council has agreed to mark Pride this August,” said Councillor Tennyson.

“Flying the rainbow flag will send a clear message that our borough is open, inclusive and welcoming for all.

“This is a small but hugely significant gesture which recognises the valuable contribution LGBTQ+ citizens make to our borough, promotes inclusion and equality, and shows solidarity with the ongoing struggle for full equality.

“While it was great to see two Ulster Unionists back this motion, it was disappointing that others in the party couldn’t follow leader Robin Swann’s example, who just last week said the UUP would not stand for intolerance while speaking at the PinkNews summer reception in Belfast. Sadly this support for the LGBTQ+ community was lacking in ABC last night.

“I am proud to have brought this motion and would like to thank all of the councillors who backed the proposal.”