The Sinn Fein president, Mr Gerry Adams, has praised the Belfast Lesbian and Gay Pride Festival as an important event that allows gay people to "highlight their concerns, needs and aspirations".
Mr Adams said politicians must begin to tackle discrimination against members of the gay and lesbian community.
"It is important those of us in positions of political and civic leadership pay attention to what is said during the many events which have taken place this week. We need to learn about the needs of the lesbian and gay community and address those needs in our day-to-day work," he said.