She made the controversial statement on BBC Radio Ulster’s Nolan Show.

Mrs Robinson, chairwoman of the Assembly’s Health Committee, said her view was based on the Bible and told Stephen Nolan that she would not be “gagged” by him.

During the phone-in programme, Sinn Fein Education Minister Caitriona Ruane called to challenge Mrs Robinson’s comments and said politicians should be guided by equality legislation at the heart of the Northern Ireland government.

Ms Ruane said: “I think it is really important that politicians play a leadership role and that leadership role should be not to say anything that could possibly inflame the situation or cause further distress.”

But Mrs Robinson said she would defend her right to express religious beliefs, while also condemning violence against the gay community.

David McCartney, from the Rainbow Project gay support group, said politicians could not be blamed for homophobic attacks but warned against comments that might provide succour to homophobes.

Mrs Robinson said: “My Christian beliefs teach me that you love the sinner but hate the sin.

“But homosexuality is something that is an abomination.”

She attacked Mr Nolan, saying that she would not let him “hammer me into the ground”.

“I will not be gagged, I will express my views,” she said.

But Mr Nolan pointed out that he had invited her onto the programme and provided her with almost an hour to express her views.