Limerick loses out to Paris in Gay Games bid

Paris has won the bid to host the 2018 Gay Games, the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community's answer to the Olympics.

The city fought off competition from Limerick and London to host the games, which organisers say are open to everyone.

The team from Limerick flew out of Shannon Airport on Thursday and presented their bid to over 100 delegates in Ohio.

The Gay Games, which expects more than 15,000 competitors, is held every four years and is taking place this year in the Ohio cities of Cleveland and Akron.

The games were estimated to have been worth millions to the local economy in Limerick if held there.

In recent months, opposition to a gay marriage Bill exposed deep divisions in French society over gay rights, attracting tens of thousands to protests for and against such unions.

Paris' deputy mayor Philippe Ducloux said "for all Parisians, it will be an honour to welcome the 10th Gay Games. All participants will be welcomed".

France's minister for sport Valerie Fourneyron said she hoped the games would make "for a more inclusive and generous society in France. "

Cillian Flynn, press and communications co-ordinator for Limerick 2018, tweeted: “What a day . . . thanks for the support and messages!!!”