'Anger and disappointment' at rainbow crossing vandalism
'Rainbow crossing needs to be fixed immediately by the relevant public authority'
A member of Derry City and Strabane District Council has expressed "anger and disappointment" at the vandalism of Derry's rainbow crossing.
Cllr Shaun Harkin (People Before Profit) said: "We extend our full solidarity to our LGBT+ community, the Foyle Pride organising committee and everyone impacted by this ignorance.
"Foyle Pride members spearheaded the proposal for the rainbow crossing. It is a unique way to demonstrate inclusion, support and celebration of the LGBT+ community.
"The rainbow crossing needs to be fixed immediately by the relevant public authority.
"There is a context for this act of vandalism. Those opposed to equality now constitute only a minority but there is a right-wing political backlash. We need to make it clear to those who did this and their supporters that the gains made by the LGBT+ community won't be overturned.
"Let's make sure Foyle Pride 2023 is a huge success. Let's show the world Derry is a pro-LGBT+ and pro-equality city. Let's make it clear we won't tolerate attacks on the LGBTQ community."