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01 August 2007 - Deputy First Minister launches pride festival

Deputy First Minister Martin Mc Guinness, MP, MLA today visited the offices of Derry’s Rainbow Project, a gay men’s health organisation to launch the official programme of events for Derry’s Pride festival.

This programme details the many events organised to celebrate the cultural and political achievements and aspirations of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans community in Derry.

The Minister commented on the progress made in recent times in relation to sexual orientation, from the introductions of civil partnerships to the new anti discrimination legislation which bans discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation in relation to the provision of good facilities and services.

He said, “No one should be discriminated against on the basis of their sexual orientation in the same way that it should not happen because of their age, race or indeed any other characteristic of their being.

"The Office of the First and deputy First Minister are committed to ensuring equality of opportunity for all our citizens,” he added.

The Derry Pride Festival runs from the 13th to 18th August. The Theme of this years festival is Social Inclusion and Human Rights.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

Media Enquiries please contact Paddy Cullen on 07850 187134

Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.


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