Nearly 80% of LGBT voters agree that they are more likely to vote for a political party with a strong record of support for LGBT equality, according to a new survey.

According to the preliminary findings of Burning Issues 2, a online survey conducted by the National LGBT Federation (NXF) scheduled for publication in June this year, LGBT voters expressed a ‘strong’ preference for parties which have been supportive of LGBT issues.

When asked which party or candidate will receive their first preference vote in Election 2016, Labour emerges as the lead party for LGBT voters, with 21% saying they will vote for the party, followed by coalition partners Fine Gael and Independents, both at 17%.

Next followed the Social Democrats (13%), Sinn Fein (11%), AAA-PBP (10%) and the Greens (7%) all receiving some level of support from the 835 respondents.

Only 3% of respondents said they would give Fianna Fáil their first preference vote on polling day, while even fewer (1%) expressed plans to support Renua.

Labour was deemed the political party which has done the most to advance LGBT equality in Ireland by 68% (538) of respondents.

“LGBT people are a highly engaged slice of the electorate,” says Ciaran Ó hUltacháin, Vice Chair of the National LGBT Federation, “and our survey makes clear that a party’s track record on issues such as the Marriage Equality Referendum and related topics will be of paramount importance when they cast their ballots this week.

“Ultimately, the LGBT community will support those who have supported us in our equality struggle and will be looking to elect political allies who will continue to advance the cause of full LGBT equality.”

Politicians deemed to have done the most for Ireland’s LGBT community will be recognised at the 7th annual GALAs (Gay and Lesbian Awards) in Dublin’s Mansion House on February 27. Labour leader Joan Burton faces off against Fine Gael’s Leo Varadkar and Frances Fitzgerald and SDLP’s Colum Eastwood for ‘LGBT Community’s Political Figure of the Year’ award.