Marriage equality groups in Ireland have warned that the positive poll results for same-sex marriage could be deceptive.

A recent PaddyPower survey suggested an overwhelming support for marriage equality with 76% in support of the Constitutional amendment.

However, marriage equality groups have now advised that voters shouldn’t take these numbers to mean that their own vote is unnecessary. It is vital that everyone casts their vote and doesn’t take these positive results for granted.

Andrew Hayland, co-director of Marriage Equality, has said: “The biggest threat is our supporters taking these figures as fact and bowing out of voting.”

The referendum, which will take place in May of this year, will determine whether or not same-sex couples will have the right to marry under Constitutional law.

Brian Sheehan, of the Gay and Lesbian Equality Network (GLEN), agrees, saying high poll numbers may create “a sense that the deed is done”.

He told Gay Star News he expects the polls to narrow as has happened in the past with other referendums in the country.

“This has been the pattern in most referendums in Ireland over the last number of years,” he said.

“We hope that everyone will realize that if they want lesbian and gay people have equal citizenship, they will need to vote. A high turnout will be essential to winning the referendum.”

This referendum will mean another step forward in the fight for equality in this country.

“It will be a firm foundation on which lesbian and gay people can feel full and equal citizens, and fully participate in every aspect of Irish society.”