Irish MEP Maria Walsh has called on the European Commission to move quicker against Hungary over gay rights violations.

Ms Walsh will travel to Budapest this weekend to take part in a series of LGBTI events, including the city's Pride parade.

There are increasing tensions between the European Union and Hungary over its controversial law that prohibits schools from teaching about issues such as homosexuality and gender reassignment.

The Commission has started legal action against Hungary, and Poland, for violations of fundamental rights of LGBTQ people.

On Hungary the cases include tthe recently adopted law, which prohibits or limits access to content that promotes or portrays the so-called 'divergence from self-identity corresponding to sex at birth, sex change or homosexuality' for individuals under 18.

While a disclaimer is also to be imposed on children's books with LGBT content.

The states have two months to respond to the arguments put forward by the Commission.

But Ms Walsh told Newstalk Breakfast they are not moving fast enough on this.

"In the two years that I've been elected... we have had a number of resolutions - one being against what Poland had done in terms of creating these LGBTI free zones.

"And most recently with the Hungarian changes in their legislation that is anti-everything the EU stands for, in terms of values and principles.

"But ultimately, we need the Commission now to ensure that if this two month period for infringement procedures... if that is not seen, we cannot kick the bucket down the line any further."

She also says it is important that MEPs, as well as countries like Ireland, "continue to denounce" such laws.

On marching in the Pride parade there, she says it is important to be seen and heard.

"As an ally and activist and member of the community myself, as well a vice-chair of the LGBTI intergroup in the parliament, it's essential that we continue to show and support activists, that the European Union is standing with them.

"And it's really important that we have that open, honest conversation of what we collectively need to do next.

"And I think, given the pandemic, given the fact that we're using online so much more - it's really important that people see face-to-face that MEPs, organisations and activists are working together and continuing to lobby".

She says she hopes there is a good turnout in Budapest at the weekend.

"I would hope that we see a lot of all ages, genders, creeds and orientations come out and show support for the LGBTI community in Hungary".