SDLP Youth: Demonstration Against Comments by Iris Robinson

national | gender and sexuality | press release Thursday July 24, 2008 13:46 by sdlpyouth - SDLP Youth

SDLP Youth have today announced a demonstration against the homophobic comments made in local press and at Westminster committees by Iris Robinson MP MLA.

SDLP @ Belfast Pride

SDLP Youth Chair Peter Armstrong said: "It is clear that Iris Robinson believes it is acceptable for her to preach outrageous messages of hate and discrimination based on her interpretation of ancient biblical texts. However, the vast majority of people in Northern Ireland do not agree with her comments.

"We believe that Iris Robinson does not have any public support. She has shown the extent of her homophobia on television and radio interviews, at Stormont as an MLA and in committees that she sits on as an MP at Westminster. We believe it is intolerable that she can remain as the Chair of the Assembly's Health Committee after the comments she has made.

"Iris Robinson has failed to apologise for her hateful comments. She has offended many decent right-minded people. There has also been complete silence from other DUP representatives, which would make us think that First Minister Peter Robinson and his DUP party colleagues all share the same viewpoint.

“As a party born from the civil rights movement the SDLP has long been a champion of society's most vulnerable and those open to discrimination. The SDLP represents people from all faiths and none. As public representatives we have a duty to legislate in the best interests of all the people.

“We believe faith and government are not mutually exclusive. However, all public policy and legislation must stand up to the rigours of basic and guaranteed human rights.

“As a party we have consistently campaigned for a comprehensive and progressive Bill of Rights setting out the principles that should underpin the new society we are trying to build and help ensure events of the past and division of the present is overcome for good of everyone on this island regardless of race, class or creed.

“If you are against the comments made by Iris Robinson, please join us on Thursday 31st July at 1pm outside Belfast City Hall where we will hold a demonstration. Everyone is invited, including family and friends of gay and lesbian people.”