Durkan urges people to support Gay Pride

He said: “First and foremost, I want to show my solidarity with the founders, volunteers and supporters of the Foyle Pride Festival.

“Through their courage, inspiration and tireless work in tackling all forms of homophobia, they are helping so many people in Derry and throughout the North West to enjoy equality in their lives.

“As a community we can show our solidarity with those who suffer this awful prejudice – both the latent homophobia of prejudiced remarks and the blatant homophobia of violent attacks – by supporting this important parade.

“In doing so, we can help promote equality for all, and face down those who indulge in prejudice and practice exclusion.”