Rainbow Flags Fly In Ireland, First Country To Legalize Same Sex Marriage By Popular Vote
SAN FRANCISCO (CBS)--Ireland has made history. It has become the only country in the world to legalize same sex-marriage by popular vote.
Celebrations are underway.
Supporters of the referendum to legalize same-sex marriage cheered and embraced as the official results came in.
Sixty-two percent of voters overwhelmingly said 'yes' as did all of Ireland's political parties.
Thousands celebrated the news on the streets, raising rainbow flags in solidarity.
"I've never felt happier as I have this day because we did it," said Dean McCaorn. "I'm so proud of this country."
Other Irish residents living abroad traveled back home to support the movement.
"People were offering lifts, people have donated money for our flights to try to get us home because people realize how important this is," said one resident.
Ahead of the vote, opponents including many living in rural areas and older voters voiced their concerns:
Some complain the law was rushed through.
As late as 1993, homosexuality was illegal in this traditionally conservative, Catholic country.
Five years ago Ireland legalized civil partnerships.