A new poll published today in the Irish Examiner found that farmers would vote in favour of marriage for lesbian and gay couples if a referendum was held today.

The poll, conducted by Behaviour and Attitudes independent market research company, showed that if the referendum were held today 46% of farmers would vote in favour with 41% not in favour. Support was highest among farmers under 35 years of age, at 64%, and amongst women (60%). The majority of farmers aged from 35 to 44 and 45 to 54 also support marriage (48% and 53% respectively).

“These poll results are another welcome demonstration of the transformation in attitudes to lesbian and gay people in rural Ireland and the willingness to extend equal status and dignity in our Constitution to lesbian and gay couples” said Brian Sheehan, Director of Gay and Lesbian Equality Network.

“It builds on the success of Civil Partnership where over 1,500 couples, across every county and community in Ireland have celebrated their love and commitment to each other, warmly supported by their families, friends and neighbours,” he continued.

“That positive support has been reflected in the very warm reception which GLEN have received at our stand at this year’s National Ploughing Championships.”

Farmers over 65 years of age were least likely to vote for marriage if a referendum were held today, with 73% saying that that would vote against. 13% said that they didn’t know which way they would vote.

“Irish people’s thoughts on this issue are constantly evolving. We look forward to talking with many people over the coming months to understand, and hopefully answer, their concerns and to explain why marriage matters to lesbian and gay couples,” concluded Sheehan.