Belfast panel discussion highlights workplace impact of LGBT+ domestic abuse
![Belfast panel discussion highlights workplace impact of LGBT+ domestic abuse](https://www.irishlegal.com/uploads/lra-20240726.jpg)
Pictured (left–right): Don Leeson, chief executive of the Labour Relations Agency; Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray; and Patrick Quigley, business support manager at the LRA.
Northern Ireland’s Labour Relations Agency (LRA) marked Belfast Pride Festival 2024 with a panel discussion on the impact of domestic abuse and violence within the workplace, particularly focusing on the LGBTQIA+ community.
The ‘Safe at Home, Safe at Work’ event, featuring panellists from local support organisations, highlighted the need for employers to create a supportive and open environment for all employees and recognise that domestic abuse is a workplace issue.
Belfast Lord Mayor, Councillor Micky Murray, provided the opening address, and lawyer and trusted adviser to several local Pride groups, Jude Copeland, led the discussion, featuring representatives from HERe NI, The Rainbow Project, Women’s Aid, Men’s Advisory Project, the Equality Commission, the Irish Congress of Trade Unions and the LRA.
The event also highlighted the importance of responding to the current Department for the Economy consultation on domestic abuse safe leave. This progressive legislation will provide up to 10 days’ paid leave, to address related issues. The consultation is open until 27 September.