Ireland’s upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union must be used to advance much-needed action on LGBTQI+ equality, Fine Gael MEP Maria Walsh has said.
MEP Walsh was speaking after hosting a performance by the Dublin Gay Men’s Chorus in the European Parliament which brought together MEPs, guests and President of the Parliament Roberta Metsola.
The event celebrated both June Pride Month and Ireland’s assumption of the Presidency of the Council of the European Union on 1 July, highlighting the important role Ireland can play in promoting equality, diversity and inclusion across Europe.
MEP Maria Walsh, Co-Chair of the Parliament’s LGBTQI+ Intergroup, said:
“The Irish Presidency is about more than chairing meetings or negotiating legislation. It’s an opportunity for Ireland to demonstrate the values we stand for and the leadership we can provide across Europe – in particular on issues that remain a challenge today.
“The European Union is founded on respect for human dignity, freedom, equality and human rights. Those same values are at the heart of Pride. While Pride is a celebration of how far we’ve come, it is also a reminder that our work is not finished. Across Europe, LGBTQI+ people continue to face challenges such as parental rights, access to healthcare and fundamental safety – making Ireland’s leadership more important than ever.
“I wanted to bring Pride and the Irish Presidency together because they represent the very best of what Europe should aspire to be: inclusive, respectful and united. As Ireland prepares to take on this important role, we have an opportunity to show that equality and human rights are not secondary issues – they are fundamental values.
Maria Walsh also paid tribute to the Dublin Gay Men’s Chorus, who performed in the European Parliament in front of President Roberta Metsola.
“The Dublin Gay Men’s Chorus creates a safe space where people can find belonging, confidence and community through music. It was a privilege to welcome them to the European Parliament and to showcase Irish talent while celebrating Pride Month. Their performance was a powerful reminder of why visibility, representation and inclusion matter.”