The Republic of Ireland has finally made legal same-sex marriage after a
legislation passed by referendum in May became effective on Monday,
November 16. Gay weddings are now recognised by the law making the
Irish state become the first in the world to legalise same-sex marriage
by popular vote, BBC reports.
Over 62% of the country's population voted in favor of same-sex marriage during the May 23 referendum. This implies that same-sex couples who have been married abroad are now recognised by the state while gay and lesbian couples who wish to marry can do so freely.
This also doesn't affect the legal status of existing civil partners who do not want to get married.
However,
the new law only affects civil partnerships, religious organisations
like the church will not be forced to perform same-sex marriage
ceremonies.
