The family of a 14-year-old Irish teenager is demanding justice after he was brutally attacked in a homophobic assault, leaving him with serious facial injuries. The victim was reportedly targeted by a gang of fellow students, allegedly due to his sexual orientation. The incident, captured on video and shared online, has sparked outrage across the UK and Ireland, with prominent figures, including Taoiseach (PM) Leo Varadkar, condemning the attack. As the family seeks consequences for the assailants, concerns are raised about ongoing bullying and the response of the authorities.
A Relentless Pattern of Harassment
According to a family member, the young teenager has endured harassment for being gay since his first year at college, making this incident the latest in an ongoing pattern. The family alleges that the attackers targeted him out of hate for his sexual orientation. Both the victim and the perpetrators reportedly attended Beaufort College in Navan, County Meath.
The family member claimed that the incident had been reported to the police (Garda), but no action had been taken. They expressed disappointment, stating that the initial response from the authorities was dismissive, with the police citing other priorities. Frustrated by the lack of progress, the family decided to share the video online, hoping to exert pressure on the authorities and the school to address the issue.
The Impact of Homophobic Violence
The assault left the 14-year-old victim with severe injuries, including two broken teeth, swelling and injuries to his head and face, and torso injuries. The family member emphasized the disgraceful nature of such violence and expressed hope that the attackers would face appropriate consequences for their actions.
Solidarity and Condemnation
Ireland’s openly gay leader, Leo Varadkar, expressed solidarity with the victim and condemned the attack. Varadkar reassured the young teenager that life improves and urged them not to give up. He expressed sadness that bullying and violence persist in schools, particularly in the form of homophobia. Varadkar called for cooperation with the Garda investigation and encouraged anyone with information to come forward.
Calls for Action
The Garda has confirmed that an investigation is underway, and the victim received treatment for his injuries at a hospital. Authorities have urged the public to refrain from sharing the video out of respect for the victim. The Louth and Meath Education and Training Board stated that significant disciplinary proceedings have been initiated at Beaufort College.
