yes

Ireland has spoken, and it’s a resounding “YES” for equality. The people of Ireland have travelled from the 4 corners of the world to take part in the referendum, which came only 22 years after homosexuality was decriminalised. After one of the largest turnouts in a referendum, 62 percent of voters said 'Yes', making Ireland the first country to adopt same-sex marriage via a popular vote.

'Yes' supporters crowded into the courtyard of Dublin Castle to watch in blistering sunshine as results trickled in from around the country were shown on a large screen. They cheered with joy as the final tally was announced and then burst into a rendition of the national anthem.

"The answer is yes to their future, yes to their love, yes to equal marriage. That 'Yes' is heard loudly across the world as a sound of pioneering leadership from our people," Prime Minister Enda Kenny told a news conference. "Ireland, thank you.”

“Not only is this an historic day for equality in Ireland, but the small island where I was born has become a global beacon for hope, tolerance,equality and acceptance.” John Ryan, current EGLSF board member.

Ireland follows several Western European countries including Britain, France and Spain in allowing gay marriage, which is also legal in South Africa, Brazil, Canada and some U.S. states, while homosexuality remains taboo and often illegal in many parts of Africa and Asia.

The Yes vote prevailed by 62 to 38 per cent with a 60.5 per cent turnout.

In total, 1,201,607 people voted in favour with 734,300 against, giving a majority of 467,307. The total valid poll was 1,935,907.