Irland Votes On Marriage Equality Today

Referendum 2015 is finally here and Ireland is going to the polls. Around 3.2 million people are entitled to vote on marriage equality and on lowering the age of qualification to stand for election as president from 35 to 21

 For months, Ireland has debated whether to legalize gay marriage. Now it's time to vote, and the choice is a simple yes or no.

Friday's referendum on amending the Irish constitution to give marriage rights to gays is expected to be approved, based on opinion polls that consistently gave "yes" voters a double-digit lead throughout the two-month campaign.

Early indications suggest this referendum is mobilizing voters on both sides just like Ireland's previous landmark votes on joining the European Union, banning abortion and legalizing divorce. Electoral officers reported stronger-than-usual turnout at many stations in schools, church halls and pubs across this nation of 3.2 million registered voters.

By the nearby shores of Dublin Bay, 20-something YesEquality campaigners waved rainbow flags and held up placards urging morning commuters with signs "Vote for us" and "Vote for everyone." Cars honked back in approval.
Results are expected Saturday.