A Social Democrats councillor has hit out at Christians who were reportedly praying near an LGBT pride crosswalk during Easter celebrations.
The comments were tweeted on Holy Week during Good Friday – a day honoured by Christians as the anniversary of Jesus Christ’s crucifixion and death.
Limerick councillor Elisa O’Donovan said: “I am hearing reports that a group with religious iconography have gathered at the Ballykeefe roundabout, right beside the newly installed rainbow pride crossing.”
She continued: “Honestly, beyond shocked that a group would do that this week of all weeks.” She included a sad face emoji.
I am hearing reports that a group with religious iconography have gathered at the Ballykeefe roundabout, right beside the newly installed rainbow pride crossing 🌈 Honestly, beyond shocked that a group would do that this week of all weeks 😢
— Cllr Elisa O'Donovan (@elisaodonovan) April 15, 2022
The councillor went on to claim that the purpose of the prayers was to insult the LGBT community in the wake of the tragic killing of Aidan Moffitt and Michael Snee in Sligo.
“Make no mistake that this was done to cause distress and hurt on top of a horrific week for our LGBTQIA+ community,” she said.
“Thank you to those who alerted me to this. This type of unnecessary distress will not be tolerated in Limerick City West.”
Thankfully they are gone now 🌈Make no mistake that this was done to cause distress and hurt on top of a horrific week for our LGBTQIA+ community. Thank you to those who alerted me to this. This type of unnecessary distress will not be tolerated in Limerick City West. https://t.co/qy4EwD0vpF pic.twitter.com/fC7yBjxyAw
— Cllr Elisa O'Donovan (@elisaodonovan) April 15, 2022
She added: “Why can these people not pray in a church or at home? Why is it always in public places designed to cause hurt and distress to others?”
However, many responses to her allegation pointed out that Christians had a right to pray, especially in a week that was particularly holy to that faith.
You mean like painting the rainbow flag on a public thoroughfare?
— Richie Hayes (@RichieHayes2) April 15, 2022
O’Donovan is known for previously having called the Gardaí on Christians praying outside of their churches in Limerick during the Covid lockdown, when religious buildings were closed.
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Before this O’Donovan herself had attended an illegal Black Lives Matter protest which was in breach of Covid restrictions at the time.
Maybe they're praying for the 2 men as it is good Friday but you don't seem to like people practicing their religion. pic.twitter.com/GGwy6fgXxD
— Paul O Connell (@PaulOConnell4) April 15, 2022
What's wrong with that? I saw muslim staff at my local hospital praying in the car park..
— Mrs C (@Andypandylathe) April 15, 2022
Elisa, most diaries will show it is holy week even if you are oblivious to it.
— J. Wales (@JWales66544475) April 15, 2022
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