Gerry Comes Out

CONTROVERSIAL broadcaster Gerry Hannan has for the first time publicly revealed that he is gay, as he gears up for his return to the Limerick airwaves after a two-year hiatus.
Gerry, who this week told the Leader that he is the happiest that he has ever been, will spearhead Pride FM — a temporary station for the local gay community — during Limerick's Pride Week September 13 to 20.

Speaking for the first time about his homosexuality, Mr Hannan told the Limerick Leader that he had been "living in fear" for over 25 years as a gay man in the city.

"I celebrated turning 50 this year, and it is only now that I'm publicly acknowledging that I am gay," he revealed. "

And he says that there are many more men in his situation who are simply afraid to come out.

"I know of several successful businessmen in Limerick who are afraid to come out, they are in fear of their own sexuality. I can completely understand that. I was there. But they shouldn't be afraid of who they are. There is a great gay community in Limerick and it is wonderful to see."

Gerry, who has lost five stone over the last year, was so grateful to his friends in Pride that he "jumped at the chance" to co-ordinate Pride FM. The radio station will broadcast 24 hours a day for seven days from midnight on Sunday September 13 on 105fm.

"I've been absent from the radio for two years and now I can't wait to get back in the studio and get loud and proud," said Gerry, who is single.

"And if all goes well, we have a fighting chance of applying for a community radio licence—as long as the people of Limerick support us," explained the former RLO talkshow host.

Gerry told the Leader that since he has come out he feels much freer, but added that his sexuality is just "a small part of my being".

"I am hoping that by coming out like this in such a public fashion that it will help some other gay people to do the same."