The mid-Ulster MP arrived at Free Derry Corner yesterday to meet representatives of the gay men's health group The Rainbow Project ahead of the launch of the city's first gay and lesbian festival for five years.

Commenting on the historic gable's new pink lick of paint by Bogside community workers and volunteers to coincide with the Free 2b Me Festival, Mr McGuinness quipped: "It is a shocking colour of pink. I wonder what wall colour chart whoever came up with that was looking at?

"But I've been told it wasn't someone from the gay community that picked it so maybe that's what why it is the shade it is."

He added that the idea was a fitting message of solidarity with local gay people.

He said: "Free Derry wall has been used since its inception by all sorts of community groups and all sorts of causes.

"That is what the wall is for and why should the gay community be denied that?

"At a time when the gay community are battling to have their position within society respected it is a lovely gesture and nobody should be in the least concerned or threatened by it."

Mr McGuinness was joined by local gay and lesbian people, community workers and Sinn Fein MLA Martina Anderson as he toured the Rainbow Project's headquarters in Queen Street before unveiling a new plaque and mural.

He said that the 30-year struggle by gay people to achieve equal recognition and status was now gathering momentum in Derry, across Ireland and the rest of the European Union.

"I think its very, very important that we have an inclusive society," he said.

"A year ago in this city the attitude of some people towards gay people was absolutely despicable. There were 100 attacks and that has been dramatically reduced this year to two, which is very welcome.

"A lot of credit is due to the community and voluntary sector who have all been involved in a process of raising people's knowledge of how society needs to be inclusive," Mr McGuinness added.

"Government ministers have as much of a responsibility as everyone else to speak out on behalf of everyone whose rights are in danger."

Sean Morrin, Rainbow Project youth support worker said of Mr McGuinness's visit: "To have someone of his stature coming along and lending support is a clear message from him that the gay community is very much a part of a new Northern Ireland."