Homophobic assault victim calls for Robinson resignation

The victim of a homophobic assault in the North has called on the DUP's Iris Robinson to resign over comments she made about homosexuality.

The Stormont health committee chair has condemned attacks on gay people but defended her views that gay sex is "an abomination".

Stephen Scott, aged 27, was left for dead by three youths who had knocked him to the ground, kicking and punching him while shouting insults.

He suffered a head wound, a leg injury and broken ribs.

Asked to comment, Iris Robinson condemned the attack but said gay people should seek psychiatric counselling and that gay sex was "disgusting, vile and nauseating".

Mr Scott said her comments had made him feel worse. He had struggled coming to terms with his sexuality, he said, and had taken an overdose last November, finding it hard to cope.

The police are investigating two formal complaints made against Mrs Robinson but she said she has a right to express her religious beliefs.