Latest news with #TheGeorge
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Israel invests heavily in hotels amid conflict
Despite ongoing regional tensions, Israel is pressing ahead with a substantial expansion of its tourism infrastructure. The country has opened 13 new hotels in 2024 alone, most of them in Tel Aviv, as part of a broader strategy to boost its hospitality sector and support business, religious, and leisure travel. This expansion, led by Israel's Ministry of Tourism, includes both government-backed and private-sector hotel investments. A total of 27 additional projects are currently supported by a $113 million funding package, $22 million of which comes from direct government grants. Tel Aviv, Israel's commercial and cultural hub, has seen the lion's share of recent hotel openings. New properties include The George, a 130-room hotel designed by Spanish architect Lázaro Rosa-Violán; Albi Florentin, a boutique hotel with digital check-in; and the Mulan Hotel, located near Meir Park and Dizengoff Center. The Gimnasia Hotel, opened in March 2025, features 145 rooms and a rooftop infinity pool, adding to the city's appeal for upscale travellers and event organisers. Other openings include Allenbeach TLV Aparthotel, aimed at adult visitors near Jerusalem Beach, and THE GUTMAN TLV, a boutique hotel located in the historic Neve Tzedek district. These developments reflect rising demand for varied accommodation options in Tel Aviv, where international events, tech conferences, and business travel continue despite regional instability. Beyond Tel Aviv, Israel is expanding hospitality capacity in key destinations across the country. The Almond Hotel in Neve Ilan, just outside Jerusalem, opened in early 2024 as a luxury adults-only spa retreat. Jerusalem also welcomed the launch of the Infinity Museum, an immersive cultural experience funded by the city and local stakeholders. Future hotel developments are set to add approximately 2,700 new rooms nationwide. These include a 260-room resort in Mitzpe Ramon, three hotels with nearly 950 rooms near the Dead Sea, and two new properties near Eilat on the site of the former Ovdat Airport. Major hotel groups are playing a leading role in this growth. Isrotel has announced 10 new properties for 2025, five of which will be in Tel Aviv. The Fattal Group plans to open six hotels in Jerusalem, while Brown Hotels is expanding with two new properties in the Tel Aviv area. Alongside its hospitality efforts, Israel is investing in wider tourism infrastructure. The Ministry of Tourism is supporting 55 projects valued at $65 million. Initiatives include laser light shows at the Eilat Marina, enhanced visitor experiences at religious and archaeological sites, and new riverside attractions in Ginosar. In Beer Sheva, the Nahal River Park is undergoing transformation into an eco-tourism site, with features such as a birdwatching complex aimed at attracting both domestic tourists and international incentive groups. Despite ongoing geopolitical challenges, these investments indicate confidence in the long-term viability of Israel's tourism sector. The strategy reflects a shift towards positioning the country not just as a religious or cultural destination, but also as a competitive player in international business tourism and events. "Israel invests heavily in hotels amid conflict" was originally created and published by Hotel Management Network, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
The Irish Sun
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
A very extensive list of London's 35 best pubs – by the locals who drink in them
LONDON is chock full of fantastic pubs but knowing which ones to really go to can be tricky. It is estimated that the capital city has more than 3,500 pubs , in fact. 11 We've rounded up our 35 favourite boozers in London according to locals Credit: Instagram But whether you're looking for an old man's boozer (carpet, old stools, no frills), a gastro pub (fancy food) or a cosy pitstop with a roaring fire, there is the perfect pub for everyone in the capital. Here is a selection of our favourite heaviest drinkers we know. The Eagle, Farringdon Claiming to be the first gastropub in the UK, it opened in 1991 when the owners were said to want to have a restaurant, but couldn't afford it. Make sure to get the famous steak sandwich, but expect your food to all come out at different times. Read more on pubs The Red Lion, Crown Passage The Red Lion is one of the oldest pubs in London with an intriguing history - it was said to be where Charles II visited with his mistress Nell Gwyn. Expect to see locals heading here for a pint after work. Guinea Grill, Mayfair Having first opened in 1423, this this is where you want to go for some great steak or pieces- great steak and pies. Despite a huge renovation last summer , it retains a lot of its original charm and feels like stepping back in time. Most read in News Travel The Portman, Marble Arch Near Oxford Street, the gastropub has all of the classic pub foods as well as huge It is light and airy too, thanks to its huge window-clad front. Why Guinness tastes better in Ireland Star & Garter, Soho This isn't where you go to get the best service, but the tiny pub is one of the most traditional you will find in the city. Make sure to head to the top floor to find the secret bar. The George, Mortimer Street The 18th century The George pub is where you will find people piling to the streets on a sunny day, being on the corner of Mortimer Street. It's Grade-II listed, having some of the original glasswork and panelling too. 11 The George pub retains many of the original features Credit: Alamy Burlington Arm, Saville Row The Victorian pub faces the Savile Row police station, dating back to the 1700s. While there are great beers and wines, make sure to try the scotch eggs - you won't regret it. Ye Grapes, Shepherds Market The traditional pub isn't just for a beer, as it also has a Thai restaurant inside. You won't spot many tourists in here either, despite its central location. The Chesterfield Arms, Hertford Street You won't miss this bright red pub, as it certainly stands out. Visit on a Tuesday to "meet the brewer" with a new one every week. 11 The Chesterfield Arms stands out in central London Credit: The Chesterfield Arms, Hertford Street The Newman Arms, Fitzrovia Once a brothel, The Newman Arms is now a cosy pub with a Victorian-like side alley. There is even a "pie room" on the first floor - make sure to try the Fisherman's one. The Lamb & Flag, Mayfair The Georgian Lamb & Flag is near Hyde Park but far enough away to be quieter than more central pubs. Expect classic British beers as well as food. The French House, Soho Famous guests at The French House include Dylan Thomas and Francis Bacon so you can sit where some of the greats did. Leave your phones in your bag though - they have a no tech rule. 11 The French House is one with no phones or TVs Credit: Alamy The Crown & Two Chairmen, Soho The landmark pub is one of the more spacious pubs in central London and was rebuilt in the 1920s. Expect live music on Sundays as well as an extensive drink list. The Ivy House, Nunhead, South East London London's first Community Owned Pub, The Ivy House was saved by locals in 2013 who saved it from demolition. Now, come for the drinks, but stay for the events from pub quizzes and beerfests to live music and book clubs. The Sun in Splendour, Notting Hill The bright yellow pub if fitting of it's name, with a huge menu of craft beers and cocktails along with food menu of both small plates and larger classics. Come in the summer and head straight to the outdoor patio in the back. 11 The Sun in Splendour can't be missed Credit: Instagram The Toucan, Carlisle Street, Soho Guinness fans need to head to The Toucan as it has some of the best pints of the drink outside of Dublin. Its tiny though, so you will likely find yourself standing on the street along with the other but still an institution. Cutty Sark Greenwich, South East London This is the spot you want to head to for a view, with a riverside terrace overlooking the river. Spritz fans can try everything from a Hugo Spritz to an unusual Rhubarb Rose Spritz. Efra Tavern, Brixton Efra Tavern is just five minutes from Brixton station so its easy to get to. It's a pub for adults, with kids and dogs banned but it has some amazing live music as well as a small beer garden. 11 Cutty Sark Greenwich has some of the best views over the river Credit: Instagram Bradley's Spanish Bar, Hanway Street The hidden pub isn't Spanish or owned by someone called Bradley, so don't be put off by the exterior. There might not be tapas, but there is a full bar menu and a free-to-use vintage jukebox too. The Blue Post, Berwick Street, Soho Tucked on the edge of Chinatown, Blue Post might not serve food but have all the beer, lager and wine on offer. Just don't confuse it with others - there are actually three Blue Posts in Soho alone. The George, Borough As the last galleried inn in London, The George was even mentioned in Charles Dickens' Little Dorrit. Now a Greene King pub, there is more than enough on the menu to keep you happy, as well as having multiple bars to choose from. 11 The George is the last galleried inn in London Credit: Alamy The Prospect of Whitby, Wapping Rumoured to be the UK's oldest riverside pub, The Prospect of Whitby has amazing views of The Thames. Come with an empty stomach and make sure to grab the fish and chips. The Dog & Bell, Deptford The Dog & Bell is definitely a hidden gem, and a great Irish pub to choose in the city. The first Tuesday of every month is where you can listen to some amazing jazz too. Royal Oak, Columbia Road After trawling Columbia Road's weekly flower market, The Royal Oak is where you will find everyone. It's worth it though for the classic pub grub - the burgers are especially great. 11 Royal Oak is popular with Columbia Road Flower Market visitors Credit: Instagram Windsor Castle, Notting Hill Windsor Castle is a real hidden gem, with a tucked away courtyard garden at the back. It has amazing pies and fish and chips, but book ahead on a Sunday as the crowds visit for the Nellie Dean on Dean Street, Soho Nellie Dean is the owned by Pieminster, so you would be mad not to grab one when visiting. The staff are amazing too - and definitely some of the friendliest in the city. Skehan's, Telegraph Hill, South East London Another Irish pub is Skehans, one of the few independent pubs remaining in London. With live music six days a week, a Thai restaurant inside and a hidden garden at the back, its definitely one to visit. 11 Skehans Freehouse has a Thai restaurant and live music throughout the week Credit: Instagram The Parakeet Pub, Kentish Town One of the newest pubs on the list The Parakeet Pub only opened in 2023 after converting a Victorian building. The stained glass bar is definitely one of the most beautiful in the city - with the crab croquettes a must. The Lord Clyde, Borough If you want an old man pub, this is the one, with vintage carpet and red leather bar stools. Its small so you might have to queue a while for your drink, but is worth it to be surrounded by proper locals. The Albert, Primrose Hill, West London Right opposite Regent's Park, The Albert has some of the most modern interiors for a pub. Head here when its good weather to the beer garden at the back, made cosy by the huge trees overhead. 11 The Albert has a great beer garden for the summer months Credit: Instagram The Cow, Notting Hill If you love Guinness and oysters, you need to head to The Cow. And keep your phone on you when heading to the bar or toilets with some very interesting wall decor... The Spaniards Inn, Hampstead Owned by two Spanish brothers, The Spaniards Inn dates back to 1585 and even welcomed both Dickens and Keats. Now its one to grab a hearty lunch at before walking it off at the nearby Hampstead Heath. The Royal Oak, Tabard Street, Borough The Victorian pub is a great spot to try all of the Harvey's of Lewes Beers. Don't expect it to be quiet though - it's near London Bridge and has won a number of awards in recent years. Coach and Horses, Soho The old school pub is like a time capsule, with it looking the same as it did back in the 1980s. Ask the staff how to find the secret tea room above... and stay for the unusual piano singalongs. 11 The landmark pub is one of the more spacious pubs in central London Credit: The Crown & Two Chairmen on Dean Street, Soho
Irish Times
23-05-2025
- General
- Irish Times
‘Our family is no threat to another family': first same-sex couple to marry in Ireland say marriage equality ‘isn't finished'
Cormac Gollogly and Richard Dowling wed on November 17th, 2015, making them the first same-sex couple to legally marry in Ireland. They recently celebrated their daughter's first birthday, having fulfilled their long-time dream of starting a family. Ten years ago today Gollogly and Dowling walked down the streets of Dublin, hand in hand, knowing they were now living in the first country to approve same-sex marriage by popular vote. 'We didn't feel uncomfortable for once in public being affectionate with one another. We didn't have to hide it and it was celebrated that day,' says Dowling, remembering the joy they felt on that day which he describes as 'like Italia '90 for the gays'. 'Marriage equality isn't finished for us,' says Gollogly, a decade later. Speaking about their journey towards parenthood, Gollogly and Dowling identify some of the challenges faced by Irish couples 'both gay and straight' who want to have children. READ MORE 'Surrogacy and new modern forms of having families are a part of Irish society and all of us are united in needing to meet those needs for the children,' says Dowling. 'The best needs of the child is sacrosanct and really important. Our family is no threat to another family.' [ 'I burst out crying on referendum results day. I realised how exhausted and scared I had been' Opens in new window ] Not long after the night they first met in The George pub, 22 years ago, the couple discussed having children. 'We were about a month together, in the first flights of love and Cormac turned to me and said 'The greatest thanks we can give the universe for the love we share is to have a child and pass that on'. So we always wanted to have a child. 'It took time to get there. We went to the US and did surrogacy in America. We had a very positive experience, thankfully, during the Biden administration.' Their daughter, Kate Rose Dowling Gollogly, is now 17 months old. She is named after her grandmothers: Gollogly's mother Rosemary and Dowling's mother Kate. They live together in a south Dublin suburb, Gollogly working as a lawyer and Dowling in finance. 'Obviously one of us isn't recognised as a parent. The surrogate is essentially Kate's mother on her birth cert,' says Dowling, something they both want to see Irish legislation 'catch up with'. 'In America it's all very clear,' adds Gollogly. 'It's Ireland that has to catch up with what is the legal reality for where Kate is born and where this all happened. The majority of surrogacy families are straight families and where it might be seen by some as a gay issue, we're in the minority,' Gollogly adds. [ Almost 6,000 same-sex couples have wed in 10 years since marriage equality referendum Opens in new window ] They point to Katherine Zappone and Ann Louise Gilligan's State case for marriage equality – the legal battle for their Canadian marriage to be recognised in Ireland was a significant catalyst for the marriage equality campaign here. 'That was their point: that Ireland needs to catch up legally with the rest of the world.' As well as advocating for LGBTQ+ parental rights, Gollogly and Dowling express concern for the 'intolerance and hate' now directed at transgender people. 'I feel there's a whole lift-and-drop of that kind of intolerance and hate in some ways on to the trans community,' says Dowling, pointing to the recent UK court ruling on gender recognition . 'It's very sad to see it. It's an easy poke at something that they don't want to understand or they don't want to try to understand ... It's a backdoor into discrimination again. It was unnecessary, in my opinion. 'The fight doesn't stop. People need to remember that we need to be visible and we need to be out there marching.'
Daily Mirror
20-05-2025
- Daily Mirror
Incredible UK village named prettiest in England' with medieval castle and pub
This village in Somerset has previously been called the 'prettiest' village in England and it's easy to see why - here's what to do if you're planning a visit The UK boasts an array of stunning spots for a staycation, with sought-after destinations scattered throughout the nation. For those in need of some travel inspiration, consider Nunney, often hailed as England's 'prettiest' village, for your next escape. Nestled in Somerset's Mendip district, this tranquil West Country village is brimming with historical charm. Visitors to Nunney can immerse themselves in its rich past, with the village's medieval castle, iconic local pub, and picturesque setting being particular draws. The French-inspired castle, erected by Sir John Dalaware in 1371, features a moat reminiscent of the Bastille in Paris. Its walls stand mostly unscathed, and Visit Somerset notes it's "in perfect scale with its surroundings". For those who enjoy a good stroll, the Nunney village trail is a must-do. Grab a guide from Frome's Tourist Information Centre to uncover all the village's notable spots. After a day of village exploration, The George pub offers a warm welcome just across from the castle. This 17th-century coaching inn, complete with exposed beams and winter fires, dishes out robust local fare and provides 10 cosy bedrooms for travellers from afar. If you wish to extend your stay in the area, the charming town of Frome is nearby and worth a visit. As one of The Times' "Best Places to Live in Britain", this historic town boasts a wealth of beautiful architecture and a thriving scene of independent shops. Frome also maintains the proud tradition of being "the original Somerset Market Town", with bustling markets held every Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday. The Frome Independent Market adds further to the town's appeal, taking place on the first Sunday of each month between March and December. The Market transforms the town into a vibrant mini-festival that draws thousands of people to its eclectic stalls, local food and drink vendors, and lively street entertainment. Nearby Bradford on Avon there is also a spectacular monastic stone barn from the 14th century that travellers can add to their itinerary. As well as a visit to nearby Farleigh Hungerford Castle, set in the beautiful valley of the River Frome. Travellers keen on exploring the River Frome up close should also head to the quiet village of Freshford - five miles from Bath. Its location at the junction of the River Frome and Avon makes it feel like a world away and the landscape of stone buildings, fields and woodlands add a distinct serenity to the area.
Irish Times
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Times
Panti Bliss: ‘Ten years ago no one on the street would have called me a paedophile. Now haters have been emboldened'
A sunny Friday evening in Dublin and the George, perhaps Ireland's most famous LGBTQ+ bar, is buzzing. The colourful venue on South Great George's Street – painted purple outside and bedecked with rainbow regalia within – opened in 1985, providing a rare 'safe space' for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer community. As the 10th anniversary of marriage equality approaches, the George and venues like it remain important meeting points, and even places of sanctuary. Though customers are happy to share memories of the overwhelming joy and relief they felt that Saturday, May 23rd, 2015, as resounding Yes results came in from across the State, they also note a deterioration in the environment for their community. READ MORE Lee Graham, 32, from Drimnagh is at the bar, scrolling on his phone. Asked about marriage equality, he says he was 'still almost a child' when the referendum was held. 'But it was so important to me, of course. We are real people. We're not just a gimmick. Love is love and if you want to marry someone it should be rightfully so. Why shouldn't we be able to be married?' But, he continues: 'Things have gone backwards. It's back to being shamed because of who you are. So yes, places like the George are very important, very. 'There is one straight bar that I'd feel comfortable [in] and that's because everybody knows me and I am safe there. But I would never go into somewhere that I don't know because the minute they hear your lingo or how you sound feminine they're like, 'Oh, who is this now?'' For lesbian and gay people things are generally pretty good, but the people who used to give us grief have focused their energies unfortunately towards our trans siblings. I know a lot of trans people who are really quite terrified by what's going on — Adrian Hempel He links increased homophobia to increases in other 'hates' including racism and misogyny. 'Oh my God, the misogyny. It's all, 'I am alpha-male ... I earn this much.'' John Hawkins, 53, from Dublin remembers Dublin Castle's courtyard playing host to a huge celebration where thousands gathered carrying rainbow flags. 'It was very moving, very profound,' he says. John Hawkins in The George last Friday evening There was also a sadness for him. 'I realised during the campaign [for a Yes vote] that because for all my life society and law had deemed someone like me could never get married, I never thought I could consider that ... That was profound for me to realise that from a very young age I had built up massive internal barriers to the possibility of what the magnitude of love could be in my life. 'I had to acknowledge that, listen to it and talk to that place in myself that had walls up against love ... It was like internalised homophobia. It was really, really deep,' he says. Asked if this is a grief, he says: 'It is a loss. But what I love now is when I see the younger, younger kids who are coming out to their families, and being met with openness, acceptance. 'They are not going to miss out having a crush, or recognising who they fancy, or the qualities in a human they might be attracted to. They are not going to have those barriers, or suppress that most beautiful part of themselves, which is to experience the greatest thing – love. That fills me with joy.' Australian Adrian Hempel, 49, was living in Australia but was watching closely as Ireland became the first country to choose to have same-sex marriage by popular vote as his boyfriend was Irish. 'We got married here and the vote made that possible.' [ Mary McAleese: Marriage equality did not end rampant homophobia Opens in new window ] They campaigned in Australia's 2017 referendum, which also passed. 'It was actually quite traumatic to have everyone in our community given licence to debate our humanity and our human rights. It was a very difficult period to live though but you have to be happy with the final result.' Asked how things are 10 years on for his community, he says: 'For lesbian and gay people things are generally pretty good, but the people who used to give us grief have focused their energies unfortunately towards our trans siblings. I know a lot of trans people who are really quite terrified by what's going on.' After a largely positive campaign the Yes vote prevailed by 62 to 38 per cent on a large 60.5 per cent turnout, with strong Yes votes across Dublin of more than 70 per cent. Just one constituency, Roscommon-South Leitrim, rejected same-sex marriage, by 51.4 per cent. The then minister for health, Leo Varadkar, who had come out as gay during the referendum campaign, said the overwhelming Yes vote marked Ireland as a 'beacon of light' for the rest of the world. And around the world the result was greeted with joy. 'Ireland did it! The 1st country to legalize marriage equality by popular vote, but they won't be the last! What an incredible accomplishment,' said US lesbian comedian Ellen DeGeneres in a tweet. 'The weather really played ball,' recalls Rory O'Neill , artist and gay rights activist. 'It felt to me like what I imagine it was like on VE Day – people spontaneously dancing on the streets. 'It actually turned out the referendum was about something more than marriage,' he continues. 'It was about feeling a belonging. That was overwhelming – that this country that had once really tried very hard to disown me and people like me had turned around and decided to embrace me and my kind.' The George on South Great George's Street, Dublin. Photograph: Dara Mac Dónaill/The Irish Times While he had strongly suspected a majority would vote Yes, he hadn't known it. 'And it turns out that knowing is really powerful. And I think you could see that reflected in the streets. You immediately began to see gay couples holding hands in a way you just had not. I think that was down to this knowing most people are on your side. There was something really freeing about that.' Ethel Buckley, deputy general secretary of the Siptu trade union, which campaigned for a Yes vote, says: 'It was Ireland shaking off that old, non-progressive self.' It was crucial, she says, in paving the way for the successful campaign to repeal the Eighth Amendment three years later. [ Gay couples feel 'a little safer' holding hands since referendum Opens in new window ] Moninne Griffith, chief executive of the youth LGBTQ+ organisation Belong To, says in the days after the result large numbers of young people came to its drop-in service for the first time. 'There was a sense of, 'It's safe to be out.' They felt it was safe, and hugely affirmed.' This affirmation felt solid for 'about five years', says Griffith. There were 'many positive developments' including gender recognition legislation later in 2015, the first national strategy for LGBTQ+ young people and increased funding for LGBTQ+ initiatives. Moninne Griffith of Belong To Since 2015 there have been almost 6,000 same-sex weddings – 3,131 of men and 2,734 of women. The community felt increasingly safe and integrated. 'And then Covid came. And the haters got their baptism in the anti-mask, anti-vaccine, anti-government stuff.' As well as targeting immigrants, Griffith says, 'they drum up fear and worry about trans people – this tiny minority of people'. Exacerbating this is increasing misogyny, she continues. 'It's very loud about trans people but if you scratch the surface there is a huge amount of homophobia. A lot of policing 'manliness'. We are hearing a lot of people being called 'faggots' again.' A Belong To and Trinity College Dublin study, published last year , reports an upsetting reality for LGBTQ young people (under 25) and trans people of all ages. 'Young LGBTQI+ people have reported increases in having feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, self-harm and suicide ideation, while trans people face increased stigma, isolation and discrimination in society, [more so] than other cohorts in the LGBTQI+ community,' it stated. Lea Hennessy, 18, lives in Wexford and is non-binary and transsexual. They describe 'a lot of anxiety' among their peers. They remember hearing about marriage equality. 'It sounds really cool.' But for them now, just being themself is challenging. 'I hear slurs all the time and have had a bad time in school with it. I know for my friends it's similar. I know people who haven't been able to come out and others who have experienced hate crimes,' they say. Lea Hennessy. Photograph: Nick Bradshaw/The Irish Times Greater understanding of the reality of trans and non-binary people's lives would make a huge difference, says Hennessy. This could start in school curricula. 'It feels like we just get mentioned as a definition in SPHE class. The rest of the time we are pushed the straight, nuclear family all the time. 'There needs to be an understanding that we are part of the community and we need to find our spot ... but you almost feel you have to see yourself as different to society because of what everyone says about you. It's hard.' Sam Blanckensee, chair of Transgender Equality Network Ireland (TENI) and equality officer with Maynooth University, campaigned for a Yes vote in Wicklow. They felt 'just such a relief that it had gotten through' and believes 'marriage equality is no longer a question within Ireland'. I would have hoped by now we would see gender recognition for under-16s, for non-binary people. That was all promised. It's not moving and there is a rise in transphobia — Sam Blanckensee However: 'It is really challenging to see it go so far backwards so quickly,' particularly for the trans community. 'It seems like we are the scapegoat for so many issues. 'We don't feel that people are seeing the vulnerabilities the community has. Trans people are such a small part of society, at such a greater risk of violence and sexual violence but are so often portrayed as the perpetrators of that violence.' Echoing them, O'Neill says he does not feel as safe in Dublin as he used to, particularly when occupying his drag-queen persona Panti Bliss. 'Thirty years ago if I was running from the George and had to go to another club, I just ran out the to the street and ran over or flagged down a taxi, and didn't really think about it. For a time after the referendum I was even more relaxed about it. 'Whereas now I am not. Ten years ago no one on the street would have called me a paedophile. And now, that will happen. The haters have been emboldened.' Sam Blanckensee, chair of Transgender Equality Network Ireland (TENI) and equality officer with Maynooth University. Photograph: Bryan O'Brien/The Irish Times Blanckensee says transgender abuse is not only online and on the streets. 'It's at policy level too.' Despite the enactment of gender recognition legislation, also in 2015, they say healthcare for trans people is 'the worst in Europe'. They reference a 2022 survey by Transgender Europe (TGEU), which is funded by the EU and campaigns for the 'complete depathologisation of trans and gender-diverse identities'. Blanckensee would 'really love the LGB community to stand out with us because Ireland is a much harder place to be trans today than it was 10 years ago'. 'I would have hoped by now we would see gender recognition for under-16s, for non-binary people. That was all promised. It's not moving and there is a rise in transphobia.' The trade union movement has 'always provided safe spaces' for the LGBTQ communities, says Buckley. In 1981, she recalls, the union hosted the first national gay conference in Cork. 'This was 12 years before homosexuality was legalised,' she says. However, she says: 'We have rested on our laurels a bit since marriage equality. The other side seems as galvanised as we were back then ... Progressive movements need to coalesce around fighting the rise of the far right.' She will find a welcome from LGBTQ+ groups. 'We really need our allies, including in Government, to come back and hear what's going on and stand with us again,' says Griffith. 'Show up in your communities, go to your local Pride events. We need you more than ever, to call out misinformation, call out hate.' Back at the George, Hawkins agrees 'things have gone back' but he has faith in the resilience of a movement that 'slogged' for decades to achieve the equality so joyously celebrated a decade ago. 'The pendulum always swings back and forward ... The movement will always stand hopeful and proud and brave, but definitely not complacent, right across the rainbow.'
