Kieran McCarthy MLA said: “I am absolutely appalled at his despicable comments. I believe the Minister should withdraw them and immediately apologise for making them and for the offence that they have caused.
“It beggars belief that yet another DUP politician has made disgraceful remarks about gay people.
“If Mr Poots’ comments were made by a government minister elsewhere, for example at Westminster, they would be expected to resign. I don’t see why the expectation should be different here or why he should not now be afraid of being removed from his post. The DUP needs to take a long look at themselves. They are not a party remotely interested in a shared future if they can stand over remarks like that.
“This disgusting and unfair approach on blood donation must stop now and we must see fairness for everyone.”
ENDS