HOMOPHOBIA AND TRANSPHOBIA is set to be tackled under a new campaign targeting the workplace.

The Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU), working with BeLongG To, a national organisation for LGBT young people, are looking to draw the attention of policy-makers and public to address the growing issue.

They say that a “serious problem” with homophobia and transphobia in Irish schools is creeping into the workplace.

This is not just in the form of harassment and bullying – the campaign also highlights that staff are “silenced and excluded” in in religiously maintained schools and hospitals.

The campaign to aims to “empower even more young people to take a stand against homophobia and to make Ireland a safer and more equal place for all”, the Founding Director of BeLonG To Michael Barron said.

He added that some people risk losing their job due to prejudice in the workplace.

Equality Officer with the ICTU David Joyce said that an effective way of workers protecting themselves against discrimination is by joining a trade union.

“Decent work sums up the aspirations of people in their working lives, including the right to be free from discrimination and to be treated equally,” he said.

Unfortunately, despite much progress over the years, LGBT people continue to experience discrimination and exclusion at work.

As part of the campaign, called “Stand Up at Work”, video and posters will be distributed online and to trade unions, employment services and training centres all across Ireland.

Today marks the International Day against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT).

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