Irish government officials believe voters have backed the introduction of gay marriage, although the count is still under way. If this is confirmed, Ireland will be the first country to approve same-sex marriage in a popular nationwide vote.
However unexpected a gay marriage referendum might appear in the traditionally Catholic country, officials acknowledge a ‘Yes’ vote looks in the bag. Though final results will be announced later in the day, several ministers have already predicted that the vote would pass.
READ MORE: #hometovote: Irish expats travel back for gay marriage referendum
“I think it's won,” Equality Minister Aodhan O'Riordain told Reuters. “This has really touched a nerve in Ireland today and I'm so proud to be Irish.”
#MarRef votes being count already. Result expected at 0500 pm ECT #irelandreferendumhttp://pic.twitter.com/r5bN57uo9T
— Juan Maza Calleja (@JuanMazaCalleja) May 23, 2015
John Murray from Catholic think tank the Iona Institute, believed to be one of the main opponents of the controversial legislative intention, has also cautiously noted that the bill might pass.
“Everyone seems to be predicting a 'yes' ... and that seems to be the case at the moment. It's disappointing,” Murray said, just minutes after the first ballot boxes were opened.
Irish Equality Minister predicts ‘Yes’ vote on same-sex marriage #VoteYeshttp://t.co/J7JIj9WCg1http://pic.twitter.com/2GRWZaRDBE
— PinkNews (@pinknews) May 23, 2015
All Ireland's main political parties, including the conservatives, have showed support to amending the constitutional definition of marriage.
"Whatever the final outcome, the issue of equality for gay and lesbian citizens is a live political issue," Gerry Adams, president of the nationalist Sinn Fein opposition party, told The Daily Telegraph.
The country’s Catholic Church hierarchy campaigned for a "No" vote, insisting marriage can only involve a man and woman. Many older and rural voters agreed with the clergy. However, on Saturday, David Quinn, of the Catholic think tank the Iona Institute, tweeted: "Congratulations to the Yes side. Well done."
Congratulations Ireland for voting yes on same-sex marriage. http://pic.twitter.com/mc4qjnYCuD
— Sam Kalidi (@samkalidi) May 23, 2015
Political analyst Noel Whelan told AP that "Yes" majorities were reported even in conservative rural districts of Ireland, and the question is now is how big the victory will be.
The count of some 3.2 million ballots cast Friday kicked off at 8:00 GMT Saturday and is expected to be over by mid- to late afternoon.
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