Call for Irish AIDS memorial

CALLS were made yesterday for an Irish memorial as World AIDS Day was marked around the globe.

Sinn Fein spokesman for LGBTQIA rights Senator Fintan Warfield urged the Government to back proposals for a permanent remembrance site.

His party wants a physical monument that can serve as a place to grieve and provide hope in light of advances that have been made in treatment and prevention. He said: “AIDS memorials exist in Toronto, New York City and Durban.

“While conditions for people living with HIV have vastly improved, remnants of stigma and prejudice remain.”

A 2017 report found one in four people incorrectly believe HIV can be transmitted through kissing, while 9% believed the virus can pass via a toilet seat.

Senator Warfield said: “A memorial will act as a

Fintan Warfield reminder the fight to eradicate HIV/AIDS is far from over. “In this state, HIV transmission rates are 8.7% higher than they were last year. Government should support a memorial in consultation with civil and civic society. “It would represent a commitment to HIV prevention, and act as a tool of acceptance by a State that has historically served on the side of stigma.”