Gay and Lesbian Equality Network (GLEN), the Irish Council for Civil Liberties (ICCL) and Marriage Equality, have today launched Yes Equality, a joint campaign to encourage people to register to vote this ahead of next year’s referendum on civil marriage equality.

The campaign will be run in collaboration with local equality organisations across the country as well as the Union of Students in Ireland (USI), Students’ Unions and Trade Unions.

The campaign was launched today in Cork City by campaigner Joanne O’Riordan, featured in the documentary film ‘No Limbs No Limits’, and Eoin Murphy, goalkeeper for All-Ireland Hurling Champions, Kilkenny.

Speaking at the launch, Eoin Murphy highlighted the importance of being on the voter register: “Next year we will have an important referendum on civil marriage equality. We want to make sure that no one misses the opportunity to have their voice heard on polling day. We are asking people to join us in registering to vote so that they can be part of creating a fairer Ireland for all.”

Joanne O’Riordan said, “Younger voters in this referendum have the chance to make a real difference. This voter registration campaign is a critical first step in getting the vote out. We cannot afford to miss a single vote and if you’re not registered you can’t vote for civil marriage equality.”

The Yes Equality campaign will run until November 25, the deadline for registering to vote on the 2015 Register of Electors. People will be asked to get the message out to their friends and families about the importance of being registered to vote in time for the referendum.

Opinion polls have consistently shown high levels of support for equal marriage across society. Tiernan Brady of Yes Equality commented today, “The upcoming referendum on equal access to civil marriage is a once-in-a-generation moment. Whilst the polls are very positive we cannot afford to be complacent. Decisions are made by people who turn up to vote. We encourage everybody to make their voice heard and change Ireland for the better by registering to vote.”

The Yes Equality website was launched today, along with a Facebook page where people can sign up and get involved in the campaign. There will also be events across the country in college campuses, town centres and other locations.

For more information visit Yes Equality, the Yes Equality Facebook page or follow Yes Equality on Twitter #RegistertoVote.