I am deeply concerned about the rise of homophobia both at home and abroad. The decision of the Hungarian Government to ban Pride events is the latest example of the full-frontal attack on LGBT human rights and fundamental freedoms. Banning Pride is a violation of the right to self-expression, peaceful assembly and freedom from discrimination. It is also stands in sharp contrast to our European values of human dignity, democracy and equality. Will the Government raise this issue at this weekend’s European Council meeting? Will it support infringement proceedings against the Hungarian Government for the violation of the EU treaties? Will it tell Viktor Orbán that this action is not compatible with membership of the European Union? This attack on human rights cannot be tolerated and the Irish Government has an obligation to call it out. The Government must act strong in defence of our shared European values and must stand up for human rights and fundamental freedoms.

I agree with every word the Deputy has uttered. We should never take for granted the progress we have made on certain issues. There is a rolling back in certain countries. There is no doubt about that. Ireland should continue, even more so at this turbulent time, to speak up and speak out in defence of our values. I am alarmed that the Hungarian Parliament has passed legislation to further restrict the rights of the LGBTQ+ community in Hungary. The EU is founded on fundamental values and that action is not compatible with European fundamental values. I will certainly be raising this issue with my Hungarian counterpart. Ireland, and I am sure the European Union, keep all options on the table in terms of how we can best make progress on this issue.