Varadkar favours 2014 for same-sex marriage poll

A referendum on gay marriage could be held within six months, Transport Minister Leo Varadkar has indicated.

Mr Varadkar suggested the same- sex marriage poll should be held on the same day as next May/June’s local and European elections as it would ensure greater voter engagement and result in a higher turnout in comparison to previous referendums.

Mr Varadkar, who said he was personally in favour of same-sex marriage, is the first member of the Government to say he wants the referendum held as early as May.