The discrimination and fear that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) nurses and midwives have to deal with in the workplace is to be discussed at a major conference in Dublin today.

The event has been organised by the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO), marking the first time that gay rights have been the subject of an INMO conference.

Issues such as discrimination in the workplace and equality in law will be discussed.

The keynote address will be made by former actor, Michael Cashman, who is now an MEP. He first came to prominence in 1989 when the character he played in popular soap opera, Eastenders, took part in the first pre-watershed gay kiss on British television.

The programme caused a media storm at the time and was even discussed in the British House of commons.

Mr Cashman went on to found Stonewall, which is now the largest LGBT equality organisation in Europe. He has been a member of the European Parliament since 1999.

The conference will also hear from Dr Mel Duffy from Dublin City University (DCU). She will present research on the reality of being a gay nurse or midwife.

"Being ‘out' in the workplace can improve productivity. Employers need to keep this in mind and ensure appropriate diversity policies are in place. If people are not able to be themselves in a job, they will under-perform. It is essential for patient care that our staff are happy in their working environment," she insisted.

Other speakers will include Cork South Central TD for Fine Gael, Jerry Buttimer, who is one of the first openly gay politicians in Leinster House, Moninne Griffith, director of Marriage Equality and Marianne McGiffin, a retired nurse and chairperson of OWLS (Older Wiser Lesbians).

Speaking about the conference, INMO general secretary, Liam Doran, insisted that while public opinion has ‘shifted in favour of LGBT rights', it should not be assumed that such rights will ‘flow without elements of prejudice, discrimination, bullying and invisibility driven by a fear of coming out'.

"Gay rights are human rights. Our language must change to accommodate everyone and let our colleagues share their personal stories in their own time and without fear. Visible support from trade unions is an important step. The INMO, and indeed other unions, must step up to the plate and we must lead by example," he commented.

Mr Doran added that a presumption of heterosexuality ‘serves only to isolate and marginalise'.

The conference takes place in the Gresham Hotel in Dublin today (June 21).