A Yes for Marriage Equality is a Yes for inclusiveness – Corcoran Kennedy

Vice Chairperson of Fine Gael LGBT and TD for Laois/Offaly, Marcella Corcoran Kennedy has today (Monday) congratulated everyone involved in the Yes campaign on the result of the Marriage Equality Referendum on Saturday.

“Saturday’s result was a true indication of the generous spirit and inclusive nature of the Irish people. The resounding Yes in the referendum not only provides for equal marriage under law, but it sends a strong message to the LGBT community that the Irish people support and value them.

“I spent most of Saturday at my local count centre in Portlaoise and the atmosphere was absolutely wonderful.

“The amendment to the constitution was approved by more than 1.2 million people, or 62 per cent of voters, with a 60.5 per cent turnout. In Laois/Offaly 56.8 per cent of voters said Yes.

“The Constitution will be formally amended in the coming days when President   Michael D Higgins   signs the Marriage Equality Bill into law. A new sentence will be added to article 41 stating: “Marriage may be contracted in accordance with law by two persons without distinction as to their sex.

“I would like to commend everyone involved in the campaign, particularly our Director of Elections, Simon Coveney and the Fine Gael LGBT Chairperson, Jerry Buttimer. I look forward to seeing the new legislation go through the Dáil before the summer recess with marriage ceremonies for same sex couples taking place as soon as possible.”