Reaction as Ireland becomes the first country to introduce same sex marriage by a referendum.
From early morning tallies at count centres around the country predicted a win for the Yes side.
Dr Gráinne Healy who co-directed the Yes Equality campaign with Brian Sheehan says it looks like the result today will mean,
Finally Ireland's lesbian and gay citizens will become fully equal.
Founding director of LGBTQ youth organisation 'Belong To' Michael Barron and husband Jaime Nanci were also in a celebratory mood. They got married in South Africa, but the referendum result means their marriage will be officially recognised in Ireland.
It means an enormous amount to us.
Independent Senator Fidelma Healy Eames who had campaigned against marriage equality wants the government to hear the concerns of the No voters and says,
I hope that it is the very best result for Irish society.
Those who gathered at Dublin Castle to celebrate are aware that today’s result is an enormous change for Ireland and its people. Florrie Moody is here to support her grandson,
They’ve been fighting for this for a long time.
Drag performer and LGBTQ+ activist Panti Bliss is not surprised at the result, but delighted at the number of people who voted Yes, describing it as,
An incredible affirmation of a new Ireland.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 23 May 2015. The reporter is Laura Fletcher.
