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University College Cork launches Ireland’s first LGBT+ Action Plan

2 Jun 2026
President John O'Halloran cuts the cake at the LGBT+ Action Plan Launch

On 2 June, University College Cork launched Ireland’s first LGBT+ Action Plan in a higher education institution. This is a landmark, institution-wide initiative that sets out a clear, evidence-based and accountable roadmap for embedding LGBT+ inclusion across all areas of university life.

Building on more than 40 years of activism, advocacy and allyship at UCC, this landmark plan reflects the voices and experiences of our community and sets out measurable actions to drive meaningful and lasting change.

Speaking at the launch, Professor John O'Halloran, President of UCC, said: 
“The launch of this Action Plan is both an historic milestone and a clear expression of UCC’s ambition to lead in LGBT+ inclusion. It reflects our deep commitment to ensuring that every member of our university community feels valued, supported and empowered to succeed. Together, we are continuing to build a university where everyone truly belongs.”

This Action Plan is the result of a deeply collaborative and rigorous process, led by the LGBT+ Action Plan Working Group Co-Chairs: Dr Diarmuid Scully, Ciara Murphy , Dr Avril Hutch , Dr Aoife Neary , Anne-Marie Curtin and Christopher Walsh . Their work was supported by a dedicated Working Group comprising of the LGBT+ staff network, academic research and professional services staff, UCC Students' Union representatives, and the EDI Unit representatives.

Thank you to our fantastic guest speakers Mary Crilly, Alex Fuertes, Cathal Kerrigan, and Gordon Grehan, and performers Louis Egan McCutcheon Em Egan Reeve Eimear Ní Chéilleachair and Amhlaoibh O Siocháin O Beoláin.

Together, we are continuing to build a university where LGBT+ people are visible, valued and supported to thrive.

The plan introduces a structured framework for delivering systemic change across five strategic pillars - Foundation, Culture, Success, Growth and Engagement. These pillars will drive actions ranging from policy reform and inclusive curriculum development to expanded staff and student supports, strengthened research networks, and deeper community engagement. Read Together with Pride: UCC LGBT+ Action Plan 2026-2028 here.

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