Cork bar apologises to gay students asked to leave premises after kissing

A CORK city bar has apologised to two male students who were allegedly asked to leave the licensed premises at the weekend for kissing.

The Old Oak live music and late night bar on Oliver Plunkett Street issued a statement last night, after meeting the two customers.

“After deliberations and discussions, both parties accepted and conceded that mistakes were made by all involved,” it read.

“The Old Oak apologised for any offence which was taken, but stressed that no offence whatsoever was meant or intended as we are not and never have been anti-gay. Equally the couple involved, who wish to remain anonymous, accepted that they could have handled matters in a better way.

“Both parties look forward to continuing good relations and custom.”

The incident took place on Friday night/Saturday morning when it is claimed a member of staff approached the two Cork Institute of Technology students and issued them with a warning. Later, as they kissed on the dancefloor, it is alleged the same staff member asked them to leave and escorted them from the premises.

The students’ union of University College Cork and Cork Institute of Technology both urged the popular bar and live music venue to make a public apology. CIT students’ union president Chris Scanlon said: “There is no room for this attitude in this day and age.” Ben Honan, president of the UCC union, said: “It is common for many students to address their sexuality while in college and events like this are discouraging for those thinking of coming out.”

Singer Billy Bragg, who is due to play in the upstairs venue of the bar in October, also expressed concern. “I am concerned that, in the light of this alleged act of discrimination, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender members of my audience and their friends may feel unable to attend the concert. I have asked my agent to contact our Irish promoter to see if this matter can be resolved,” he said. Bragg also supported calls for the management to issue an apology.

The Equal Status Acts 2000 to 2004 prohibit any discrimination on a premises on the grounds of sexual orientation.