Decision to reveal he is gay pivotal point for yes vote

Pat Carey’s decision to reveal he is gay ahead of May’s marriage equality referendum was seen as a turning point for the yes campaign.

He only came out to family and friends four years earlier, aged 63, but in February decided to publicise his sexuality because he was concerned the marriage equality referendum campaign lacked a sense of urgency.

It was seen as a pivotal moment for the yes campaign, not least because of his age. Mr Carey himself said that he had particular concern for older gay people who did not grow up in today’s more inclusive society.