The Taoiseach has insisted that it is only “a matter of time” before there is marriage equality in Northern Ireland.

Leo Varadkar was speaking at a breakfast in Belfast as part of the city’s Gay Pride Festival.

His support of the event has divided political opinion in the North – however he has insisted he will make no compromises on equality.

He said he was not trying to influence debate on gay marriage in the region – and welcomed the fact that uniformed garda and PSNI officers will be taking part in today’s march for the first time.

“I totally appreciate that the issue of marriage equality is an issue for the Northern Ireland Assembly and I think that decision can be made - but we need the Northern Assembly up and running," he said.

“It is a decision that should be made by the people who are elected on behalf of the residents and citizens of Northern Ireland.”

Thousands are expected to take part in the Belfast Pride Festival Parade this afternoon - marking the end of a full week of events across the city.