SUPPORT FOR THE same-sex marriage referendum appears consistent at three-quarters of voters but a new poll has questioned the strengthen of that support.
A Red C/Sunday Business Post poll says that support for same-sex marriage is a 77% but that 46% have ‘some reservations’ about it.
The support level is up by a percentage point on another poll carried out a fortnight ago but the doubts indicate that there are still votes to be won by either side.
Today’s poll shows that, of the 77% who support extending marriage rights to same-sex couples, 59% ‘agree strongly’ while 18% ‘agree slightly’.
It would suggest that, at present, only 41% of voters are definitely planning on supporting the referendum.
Of the 22%* who disagree, 9% ’disagree slightly’ and 13% ’disagree strongly’.
The poll was conducted between Monday and Wednesday of this week and 1,005 adults were also asked the following question:
I believe in equal rights for gay people but I have some reservations about same-sex marriage.
44% percent of people said they had ‘no reservations’ while 33% had ‘some reservations’.
Interestingly, given how much of the debate this week has misleadingly focused on adoption by same-sex couples, few people have reservations about gay couples adopting. Just 29% of those surveyed saying they have ‘some reservations’ about it.
Responding to the figures, the Gay and Lesbian Equality Network says that today’s poll is indicative of the ‘consistent support’ same-sex marriage over the last few years.
“The figures are very positive but a lot of work will be required to ensure the amendment passes,” added Glen’s Kieran Rose.
*figures provided by Red C
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