Kenny calls for a strong turnout for referendum votes

Taoiseach Enda Kenny has urged people to vote in both upcoming referendums.

People are being asked to vote on whether to allow same-sex couples to marry on May 22nd. On the same day they are being asked if they wish to reduce the age limit for presidential candidates from 35 to 21.

On his way into Cabinet on Tuesday morning, Mr Kenny said: “My message to people is understand from the [Referendum] Commission what is being said here. Follow the arguments but make sure that they go and cast their vote on May 22nd for the two referendums.”

Referring to the same-sex marriage issue, Mr Kenny said Irish people were being asked to extend civil law to others, who were currently not covered by it, regardless of the sexual orientation.

“This is in addition to the section in the Constitution here, it doesn’t change any definitions, it merely strengthens the institution by making it available to people who are currently outside that limit.”

Concern is growing in Government circles at the potential for a silent No vote to emerge in the final weeks before polling.

Another issue is turnout in referendums is generally low - during the Children’s Referendum turnout was 33.5 per cent - meaning relatively small shifts in voter preferences can be significant.