Content warning: please note that this programme contains homophobic views and language. Viewer discretion and self-care is advised.

In this episode of Counterpoint the age of consent, for gay men is discussed in relation a recent Parliamentary vote in Westminster, London. At the time the age of consent for gay men was different from that of heterosexual people in both Britain and Northern Ireland respectively.

The studio discussion includes Ruth McCarthy, PA Maglochlainn, Dr Raymond Maw and Rev. David McIlveen with Angela Mason (Stonewall) and Senator David Norris joining by video link. Ruth McCarthy, (representing Belfast Lesbian Helpline, a grassroots organisation aimed to provide services to support lesbian and bisexual women in Belfast, Northern Ireland) addresses the issue of lesbian visibility and how lesbian women are affected by the wider debate around the age of consent. 

Counterpoint, Ulster Television's landmark current affairs series, which was also broadcast to a national audience on Channel 4.

A UTV Production.

Presenter Mike Nesbitt

Reporter Chris Moore 

Contributors: Simon Lee, Professor of Jurisprudence Q.U.B.; John Cross; Angela Mason, Stonewall; Ruth McCarthy, Belfast Lesbian Helpline, Senator David Norris; PA Maglochlainn, N.I.G.R.A.; Dr Raymond Maw and Rev. David McIlveen.

• NI Direct - PRONI
• ‘The Troubles I’ve Seen’ project aims to collect, share and conserve the memories and experiences of the LGBT+ community in Northern Ireland from 1980s and 1990s.