Same-sex marriage legislation passed by the Dail

Historic legislation to allow same-sex marriage has been passed by the Dáil.

The Marriage Bill 2015 will give legal effect to the decision in last May's referendum on marriage equality.

TDs from all sides broke into spontaneous applause as the bill was passed without a vote.

Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald says she hopes the bill will be sped through the Seanad so that marriages can begin as quickly as possible

“This is a very important step here today towards the enactment of this Bill and I do look forward to moving the Bill through the Seanad very soon,” Minister Fitzgerald said.

“And I know that we all hope that the legislation will be enacted in the next few weeks and again I thank all deputies and everyone who is involved in the campaign.”