Gardaí investigating damage caused to Mayo Pride sign

The vandalising of a Mayo Pride sign in Westport is being investigated.

Gardai are treating it as a hate crime and anybody with information should contact the local garda station.

The west Mayo town is hosting the Mayo Pride Parade on Saturday.

It will be led by MEP Maria Walsh.

The organisers have also reported that their online registration system for events had to be shut down briefly due to trolling.

"We receive vile and violent content through social media all year long, as many LGBTQ+ organisations do.

"When you have a small team of volunteers, issues such as these can become big setbacks.

"They are purportedly carried out by people threatened by LGBTQ+ visibility and society’s progress towards acceptance and inclusion.

"We will not be deterred. We have poured love and passion into creating a festival for everyone.

"We cannot wait to celebrate with you all in Westport this bank holiday weekend.

"We are also so grateful to the many individuals and businesses in Westport and Mayo who have provided support throughout the festival and the year. We could not do it without them," a statement on their social media platforms outlined.

As well as being vandalised, the sign had a three-letter slur sprayed on it.

In a show of support, local Councillor Brendan Mulroy welcomed the Mayo Pride Parade back to Westport.

"A few vandalised signs won't stop the people of Westport from giving Mayo Pride a fantastic welcome to a very sunny Westport this weekend," he added.

Details on events and tickets can be accessed here.