A “rainbow crossing” in support of the LGBTQ+ community in Derry has been restored after it was defaced in what police have described as a hate crime.
The crossing in the colours of the gay pride flag, linking the city’s Guildhall with the Peace Bridge, was the first of its kind in Ireland when it was unveiled two years ago.
Derry and Strabane council staff have since removed the white paint.
Mayor Patricia Logue said the rainbow crossing showed that Derry was an open city and welcome to everyone.
“I was shocked and saddened to learn that our rainbow crossing was defaced in this way. The crossing is a bright and colour demonstration that we are a city that celebrates diversity and where everyone is welcome," she said.
“This act of vandalism is, therefore, an attack on not just our LGBTQ+ community but the city as a whole.”
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SDLP councilor Rory Farrell said the attack had caused “real anger” in the city. Mr Farrell urged members of the LGBTQ+ community in the city not to feel intimidated.
He said: “It was the first of its kind on our island and many people in this city were justly proud of that fact. Since it has been installed it has proven very popular amongst locals and tourists alike, with many stopping to have their picture taken.”
Mr Farrell said a clear message needed to be sent out that such attacks would not be tolerated in Derry.
