The Marriage Referendum +10 conference at Dublin Castle marked the 10th anniversary of the historic referendum in which 62 per cent of voters backed a constitutional amendment paving the way for same-sex marriages to take place for the first time.

As of the end of 2024, some 5,865 same-sex marriages have taken place, with slightly more (53 per cent) between men than women.

Same-sex marriages now account for around three per cent of all marriages taken place annually.

Children, disability and equality minister Norma Foley told yesterday’s conference: “In May 2015, 10 years ago, Ireland made history. We became the first country in the world to vote for equal marriage in a Referendum.

“This was a momentous and powerful occasion for the entire country. It represented the coming together of a nation, in a most profound way to show solidarity, kindness and understanding for our fellow citizens.”

She used the conference, which was funded by the Department of Children, Disability and Equality, to announce that the national LGBTI+ inclusion strategy for 2024-2028 and its associated first two-year action plan will be launched later this month.

“As we prepare to launch Ireland’s next national LGBTIQ+ inclusion strategy, our commitment to improving the lives and protecting the rights of the LGBTIQ+ community remains steadfast,” Ms Foley said.

“We want Ireland to remain a beacon of equality, democracy and inclusion.”