Co Westmeath school wins inclusivity award for LGBTQ+ support

Wilson’s Hospital secondary school in Co Westmeath has been recognized for its efforts to support LGBTQ+ students. The school, along with 43 others, received an award from the youth advocacy group Belong To for creating an inclusive environment. The recognition comes at a time when the school is involved in a legal dispute with Enoch Burke, a teacher who was suspended for refusing to use a student's chosen name and pronouns. Burke has had multiple prison sentences for ignoring a court order to stay away from the school. Acting principal John Galligan expressed pride in the award, stating that the school has been working to enhance student wellbeing and inclusivity since participating in an LGBTQ+ quality mark program in 2023. He emphasized the importance of a supportive school environment for all students. The Attorney General has taken steps to collect fines amounting to €79,100 from Burke due to his court contempt. A High Court judge ordered measures to ensure that fines could be paid from Burke’s salary and bank account. Belong To's quality mark was developed in response to a survey showing that a large number of LGBTQ+ youth do not feel safe in schools. The initiative has encouraged over 100 schools to adopt LGBTQ+ topics in their curricula. According to the chief executive of Belong To, Moninne Griffith, LGBTQ+ students face higher rates of harassment compared to their peers, highlighting the need for ongoing support and improvement in school climates.