The recent European Court of Human Rights ruling on abortion in Ireland merely requires the Irish government to implement existing laws. The cruel realities which must be faced by some women, however, remain unaddressed and unlawful.

There remain countries in the world where LGBT people are criminalised for who we are, and in six of these the penalties include execution. When LGBTs flee such countries to seek asylum, will we get protection? How does Ireland treat asylum seekers who fear persecution because of their sexual orientation or gender identity? How many LGBT asylum seekers have been deported to unsafe countries where they may face torture, death or other forms of serious harm?

There are various kinds of comments whirling around the LGBT interwebs about a recent vote in the United Nations. Many of them boil down to making an assertion along the lines of: “The UN says it’s okay to kill gays!” So, what are the rumours, and what are the facts?

Linc (Lesbians In Cork) is pleased to announce its new Wednesday evening group, Phoenix, for women aged up to 23. If you’re young, interested in all things LGBT and in the Cork area, this one’s for you.

The final episode of Lip Service – the Beeb’s series featuring fictional Lesbians Of Scotland – airs tonight: Tuesday, 16th November 2010 at 10:30pm. Members of Gaelick will be following, tweeting, commenting, opining and (more than likely) gasping at the Sapphic thrills and spills. So, join us!

So, Cat McKenzie. You say you love Sam Murray. But do you? Do you?! The dilemma: Sam or Frankie. Much like: strawberries or a plate of vomit. Or: jazz tootlings or Justin Beiber. Or: a hot cop or a feckin’ feck-up.

Take your seats, lesbians and gays, for Outlook – the LGBT programme of this week’s Cork Film Festival.

Twists and turns, more naughtiness, and “exciting announcements” from the BBC: that’s right, it’s Lip Service, episode three!

Last night across the UK, vigils were held to speak out against hate crimes, and to remember those who have been victims. There is no hate crime legislation in Ireland, so in this country hate crimes technically don’t exist.

On this bank holiday weekend, there’s only one place to be on Sunday night: BeLonG To’s Gay Prom 2010 fundraiser. Online sales have now closed, but a limited number of tickets will be available at the door.

To stir things up in Dubland, Spoon, a new night for girls and their guests starts TONIGHT in The Mezz, Dublin

HAL has previously had her spake about BBC3′s Lip Service – in particular she seemed focused on that Frankie character, played by Ruta Gedmintas. Well, who I want to talk about is the character of Sam. Detective Sergeant Sam, to be precise.

Fairy God Mother and Ireland’s number one Drag Queen, Veda, has teamed up with Irish Gay Youth Charity, BeLonG To, to bring you the second instalment of Ireland’s official Gay Prom for gay boys and girls.

On Monday, 11th October 2010, National Coming Out Day will be celebrated at various events throughout the United States. Does Ireland need to do the same?

Mr Johnny Golden (73), of Doogary, Killeshandra, Co Cavan was subjected to a violent attack in his home on Tuesday, 7th September 2010. His injuries were extensive, and the nature of those injuries particularly brutal. Mr Golden died in Cavan General Hospital on Tuesday evening, 6th October. Gardaí are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

Calling all non-recluse lesbians! Your social group needs you – head along to the Running Amach fundraiser this Saturday! Running Amach is the online women’s group organising scene and non-scene events around Ireland. Find your nearest lesbian jazz fans, tennis group, film aficionados and much more!