New poll shows 60 percent of Irish people are in favor of gay marriage

The majority of Irish people want gay marriage to be legalized, according to the latest Irish Independent/Millward Brown Lansdowne survey.

More than 60 percent of those surveyed believe that same sex marriages should be recognized by the state. The most votes came from the group aged between 18 and 24, and the greatest opposition came from those aged over 65.

According to the figures, just 27 percent of voters are opposed to the idea of gay marriage.

Last July in a historic move for Ireland, President Mary McAleese signed the Civil Partnership into law despite harsh criticism from several religious organizations.

The legislation came into effect last month and offers legal recognition to same sex couples as well as a range of rights and protections.