livingdead
ELITE MEMBER
The Republic of Ireland has voted overwhelmingly to legalise same-sex marriage in a historic referendum.
More than 62% voted in favour of amending the country's constitution to allow gay and lesbian couples to marry.
It is the first country in the world to legalise same-sex marriage through a popular vote.
Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny said it was a "small country with a big message for equality" around the world.
The referendum was held 22 years after homosexual acts were decriminalised in the Republic of Ireland.
Atmosphere
Same-sex marriage is now legal in 20 countries worldwide.
BBC Ireland correspondent Chris Buckler said the atmosphere at Dublin Castle, where thousands of people gathered to watch the results being announced, was more like a festival than a referendum result.
Counting began at 09:00 BST on Saturday, and the final result was declared shortly before 19:00 BST.
rest here
Huge Republic of Ireland vote for gay marriage - BBC News
More than 62% voted in favour of amending the country's constitution to allow gay and lesbian couples to marry.
It is the first country in the world to legalise same-sex marriage through a popular vote.
Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny said it was a "small country with a big message for equality" around the world.
The referendum was held 22 years after homosexual acts were decriminalised in the Republic of Ireland.
Atmosphere
Same-sex marriage is now legal in 20 countries worldwide.
BBC Ireland correspondent Chris Buckler said the atmosphere at Dublin Castle, where thousands of people gathered to watch the results being announced, was more like a festival than a referendum result.
Counting began at 09:00 BST on Saturday, and the final result was declared shortly before 19:00 BST.
rest here
Huge Republic of Ireland vote for gay marriage - BBC News


