Yes vote pressure rises as poll gap narrows

The Government is to “throw everything” at a yes vote in the marriage equality referendum, after tightening poll numbers set Coalition nerves on edge.

Fine Gael and Labour are determined to avoid the kind of destabilising last-minute defeat the Government suffered in the Seanad abolition vote, as both parties fear this would undermine the Coalition’s authority and record in the run-up to next year’s general election.

Though polls continue to suggest a clear win for the yes side, opposition appears to be hardening and more voters are identifying as unsure ahead of Friday’s vote.