The Irish Times journalist and author Una Mullally has been appointed as chair of the group that will oversee the first-ever National LGBT Youth Strategy.

Mullally was appointed to the position by the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Katherine Zappone.

The group will work with young people across the country to develop a strategy which will address the challenges faced by young members of Ireland’s LGBT community.

Ms Zappone said she was delighted to appoint Mullally to the position and described the journalist as “exciting, inspiring and passionate”.

“We all remember when images of a sea of rainbow flags in the courtyard of Dublin Castle were beamed across the globe, setting Ireland as a beacon for equality - it was a proud moment,” said Ms Zappone.

“However, for many in our community, isolation, discrimination and bullying remain realities.”

‘Unique challenges’

Speaking following the announcement, Mullally said young LGBT people continue to face “a unique set of challenges when striving to fulfil their potential, particularly when it comes to mental health, facing bullying in schools, combatting negative stereotypes, and dealing with the anxiety of environments hostile to their sexuality or gender identity.

“As someone who grew up gay in Ireland, I understand the struggles and complexities of existing in a society that is sometimes hostile to your identity.

“I hope to bring that experience, as well as my work as an LGBT rights activist and advocate, to this endeavour, and will also be guided by the experts in this field, and, most importantly, LGBT young people themselves.”

Mullally is a columnist and feature writer for The Irish Times and is the co-founder of The Irish Times Women’s Podcast.