ANTI-LGBTQ ASSAULT BY BEAUFORT COLLEGE STUDENTS IN NAVAN

Christine O’Mahony

On the 17th of May, a video went viral on social media showing a teen being viciously attacked by approximately five other teenagers. It was later revealed that they were students from Beaufort College. The student was allegedly beaten up because of his sexual orientation, according to family members.

Gardaí said that the assault was being investigated as a hate crime and that the victim was taken into hospital after suffering a concussion, broken teeth and extensive bruising. It was later reported that

Beaufort College disciplined the students involved. This horrific incident brought great shock especially to the local community and was even condemned by Twitter users residing in England. It was also noted that this incident took place on the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia.

“There is speculation that this was a homophobic attack,” a Navan pride representative said about the situation. “While this is unconfirmed, we strongly stand against this type of behavior and ask that our followers do not share this video online. Violent attacks on members of the

LGBTQ+ community are still happening, not just across this country but within our own town. This is why Navan Pride is so important and why we need your support”.

Mayor of Navan, Sinn Féin’s Cllr Eddie Fennessey, said that the community was shocked by the vicious assault and “as the mayor of Navan, I offer the child the support of the people and I ask that the family be given space during this difficult time”.

Fine Gael’s Cllr Yemi Adenuga also condemned the attack, claiming that the video shared online brought her “to tears” as she is a mother of young boys and that “all responsible must be held accountable.

“Gardaí must thoroughly investigate this incident and that the school must address and condemn this and not allow bureaucratic procedures hold things up! Young people should not be afraid to go to school or feel unsafe in & out of school”.