It is concerning that Ireland has failed to make progress on LGBTQIA+ rights, according to Social Democrats TD Pádraig Rice.
Deputy Rice, who is the party’s health spokesperson, said:
“Today ILGA Europe published its annual Rainbow Map, which ranks European countries in terms of LGBTQIA+ human rights and policy protections. Ireland is once again ranked at 14th – no change since last year.
“It is regrettable that progress on LGBTQIA+ rights in Ireland has stalled. Today’s report confirms what we already know – that the Government has made no improvement on LGBTQIA+ issues over the last year. This is deeply disappointing.
“Ireland remains mid-league in a European context on LGBTQIA+ rights and policy protections and is stuck in the same position as last year.
“When I raised this issue with the Tánaiste this time last year he promised action. But nothing happened. Rainbow flags outside Government departments for Pride are nice but what people really want is progress on the issues that matter.
“Ireland has the worst trans healthcare provision in Europe. There are still significant gaps in family laws and assisted human reproduction. Conversion therapy hasn’t been banned, and intersex issues haven’t even made it onto the agenda.
“We also know there are real gaps in sexual health services. Just last week, the Oireachtas Health Committee heard that the target to end HIV transmission by 2030 will be missed unless there is a serious change of approach.
“In recent years we have seen a rise in hate, both on and offline. This cannot be allowed to go unchallenged. The Government must produce an action plan to tackle this.
“Ireland should set the goal of being the best place in Europe to be LGBTQIA+. To get there, we need a solid plan and real political leadership. If the Government of Spain can do it, then the Irish Government can too.”
May 12, 2026