The Kilrush-based Executive Director of GLEN says young people here who are struggling to come to terms with their sexuality will be frightened today, following America's worst-ever mass shooting.
50 people died, while 53 others were injured – several critically – in the massacre at a gay nightclub in Florida in the early hours of Sunday morning.
Family and friends of people who were in a nightclub in Florida when a gunman burst in are waiting to see whether their loved ones are among the dead.
50 people were killed and another 53 injured in the club in Orlando and it's feared the death toll may rise, as many of those hurt are said to be in a critical condition.
The suspected killer – 29-year-old Omar Mateen – made a 911 call swearing allegiance to Islamic State before opening fire.
Angel Colon's son was in the venue at the time, he says his son was shot twice, he lay on the floor and realised the girl whose hand he was holding didn't make it.
Members of the LGBT community here are expressing their solidarity with their counterparts in the US.
The Gay and Lesbian Equality Network has offered its condolences, saying they decry hate crimes against LGBT people anywhere in the world.
Glen's Executive Director and Kilrush native Brian Sheehan says young people stuggling with their sexuality will be frightened today, but he takes some comfort will be taken from the words of political leaders here.
The LGBT Helpline will be taking calls from the earlier time of 4pm today for those affected by the mass murder in Orlando.
Their number is 1890 929 539.
