18/08/2006 | Writer: KAOS GL
www.pinknews.co.uk
Michael Cashman, Labour MEP and President of the European Parliament's Intergroup on Gay and Lesbian Rights has said there are "simply no excuses" for the wave of recent cancellations, bans and violence at Pride marches in several European cities.
He said: "From Moscow in Russia to Bursa in Turkey we have seen too many examples of authorities and police not taking their responsibilities seriously enough and being unwilling or unable to avoid violent clashes between peaceful Pride marchers and mindless, intolerant thugs intent on spreading hate and discrimination.
"Members of the European Parliament's Intergroup on Gay and Lesbian rights have been at the forefront of promoting Gay rights and non-discrimination across Europe and our members have been present in Pride marches throughout Europe over the summer.
"I attended the Warsaw Pride which, fortunately for all present, went off without significant difficulties thanks to a large police presence.
Tags: human rights
