Sinn Féin’s Foreign Affairs Spokesperson, Seán Crowe TD, has condemned the Ugandan Government over its anti-gay bill, which was signed off on by the President and entered into law today.

The law bans the promotion of homosexuality, introduces harsh penalties for those who participate in gay sexual practices, and even makes it illegal for citizens not to report people who may be gay to the police authorities.

Deputy Seán Crowe said:

“People around the world are rightly and strongly condemning the Ugandan Government for passing this discriminatory law, which completely infringes the human rights of gay people in Uganda.

“I am also extremely worried for the health and well-being of LGBT citizens in Uganda.

“There were some indications that President Yoweri Museveni might refuse to sign this Private Members Legislation into law, but he appears to have caved in and signed off on this discriminatory bill.

“He has also released worryingly fundamentalist statements, in which he is arguing that homosexuality is somehow ‘unnatural’.

“Uganda is a partner country of Irish Aid, but bilateral aid is still suspended due to the earlier misappropriation of aid money at the end of 2012.

“Irish elected representatives from across all parties and none have already gone on the record stating their deep disquiet and concern at this proposed law, and questioned Ireland’s relationship with Uganda if this repressive legislation was to be agreed.

“I intend to raise the issue with the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Eamon Gilmore, to and try and ensure that Ireland stands by its stated international human rights commitments in face of this repressive and discriminatory anti-gay law.

“The passing of this draconian legislation changes the dynamic between our two Governments and our relationship with the Ugandan Government will need to be reviewed.”

ENDS