Tánaiste: Russia's anti-gay laws 'to be deplored'
The Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore has condemned Russia's laws which forbid public displays of homosexuality.
Mr Gilmore said prejudice against gay people is something that should be "overcome, not legalised" and that Ireland is working with other EU countries to try and address the laws in Russia.
Mr Gilmore said he will raise the issue with a Russian counterpart at a meeting shortly, saying: "Let me state clearly that any acts of violence against any member of the LGBTI community in Russia, or anywhere else for that matter, are totally unacceptable and to be deplored.
"While polls suggest that the legislation enjoys broad popular support in Russia I believe that no government should legislate for prejudists, but rather should confront and overcome them."
