LGBT activists' rights can't trump those of their critics

The main theme was ‘equal marriage’ and I have no doubt that many in the parade sincerely believe such a status is obtainable but in reality it has all the intellectual force of the Flat Earth Society.

It is physiologically impossible for a same sex couple to replicate a heterosexual union on many fronts and it would be much more progressive if the campaigners found another name for it.

The marriage equality they desire is unobtainable, not by fiat of their opponents but by the limitations of the human body, and they should stop wishing to perpetrate a fraud upon society.

What is needed, is a rebalancing of rights. The National Trust debacle arose because at one of their properties, volunteers were compelled to wear rainbow badges to celebrate the anniversary of the decriminalisation of homosexual acts.

Those who refused to wear the tags were ordered not to occupy any role which brought them in contact with the members of general public.

Anyone daring to defy the edict were deemed to be shameful, public lepers, who had to be hidden out of public view.

Some label it homofascism and it is an issue which the LGBT movement must be compelled to face.

Their rights cannot be allowed to trump the rights of those who wish to publicly challenge or disagree with them. The right not to service their activities on grounds of conscience must also be established.

For too long, too many have genuflected before the altar of political correctness to the point now where freedom of expression is being punished. Any criticism at all is immediately labelled homophobic in a deliberate effort to stifle debate.

Then entering into this controversy with both bow doors open, sails the PSNI, crassfully embracing a political campaign and to add to hurt to injury it extends an invitation to the Gardai Siochana, which steadfastly refuses to send witnesses north to the Kingsmills murder inquest.

We need a fair, balanced public debate in order to establish an accommodation which reflects reality, equality, freedom and the rights of all.

Ronnie Crawford, Dromore BT25