Same-sex marriage referendum vote counting underway in Ireland
By Ryan Love
Vote counting is underway in Ireland following yesterday’s historic same-sex marriage referendum.
A high turnout was reported across the country, as the country was asked whether or not the constitution should be amended to allow gay and lesbian couples to marry.
If the ‘Yes’ vote is succesful, Ireland will be the first country in the world to have legalised gay marriage as a result of a referendum.
Early reports suggest that turnout passed the 60% mark in Dublin, Limerick and Waterford, while crossing 50% in Cork, Carlow, Donegal, Galway, Kerry, Kilkenny and Tipperary.
Shortly after counting began at 9amm, Minister of State for Equality Aodhán Ó Ríordáin tweeted: “I’m calling it. Key boxes opened. It’s a yes. And a landslide across Dublin. And I’m so proud to be Irish today.”
Meanwhile, Fionnan Sheahan, the editor of the Irish Independent added: “Spoke to a Fine Gael strategist who says it’s heading towards 65-66% Yes across the country. 2:1 margin of victory. #marref #tallytweets”
Just after 10am, David Quinn, the director of the Iona Institute congratulated the ‘Yes’ side on victory, writing on Twitter: “Congratulations to the Yes side. Well done. #MarRef”
The official result is expected this afternoon.
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