A suspected homophobic attack on two students in Limerick city has been "utterly condemned" by an LGBTQI+ support charity.
The incident took place on Upper William Street on Wednesday night when a group of friends were targeted.
The two victims required hospital treatment and are said to be "deeply shaken", according to GOSHH (Gender Orientation Sexual Health HIV).
According to a statement released by GOSHH, a number of men began shouting homophobic slurs at the friends before proceeding to "kick and punch several members".
"We are under no illusion whatsoever that this attack is a 'once off' incident," said Verena Tarpey, CEO of GOSHH.
"As a society, we would like to believe this is the case - however, this is not the reality."
She said homophobic harassment and violence against members of the LGBTQI+ community "is a crime but still remains largely under-reported".
Gardaí confirmed that they are investigating an incident of assault at around 11.30pm on Wednesday.
They said a woman in her 20s suffered non-life-threatening injuries during the attack.
The incident comes a month after it was announced that Limerick and Clare were successful in their bid to host EuroPride 2028.
A celebration of diversity and visibility, it is Europe’s most significant Pride event and it is the first time it will be hosted on the island of Ireland.
