Ireland: One in five voters undecided ahead of equal marriage referendum
One in five potential voters in Ireland are still undecided on same-sex marriage, just three months before the country’s referendum.
The Republic of Ireland is set to vote in May on a proposal that would legalise civil same-sex marriage.
Despite strong public support, a new Millward/Sunday Independent poll released this week shows that despite strong support, over a fifth of voters still don’t know how they will vote.
It found that while 62 percent were in favour with 16 percent opposed, 22 percent of voters are still unsure didn’t know how they would vote on the issue.
Opposition was also higher among older people – who are more likely to turn out to vote.
Kieran Rose of GLEN said: “It is clear from this poll and other recent polls that Irish people firmly accept that lesbian and gay couples should be afforded the same respect, legal status and protections in the Constitution that are available to the rest of society.”
“The figures are very positive but a lot of work will be required to ensure the amendment passes.
“This is a vote about members of our families, our friends, neighbours and work colleagues and their equal citizenship and it is important that we do all we can to engage and persuade people about why marriage matters to all of Irish society including lesbian and gay people.”
Grainne Healy of Marriage Equality said: “Marriage equality is a grassroots movement and we are confident the referendum will be won as every person who supports lesbian and gay peoples’ right to marry gets behinds the Yes campaign.
“We are encouraging supporters to have conversations with family, friends and colleagues.
“People who may have concerns or unanswered questions are being engaged with and are getting reassurances. This is how the soft support turns into yes votes.”
