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28th Oct 2018

The results of the blasphemy vote have been confirmed

Olivia Hayes

It was finally confirmed last night.

Voters across Ireland have overwhelmingly supported the proposal to remove blasphemy as a punishable offence from the Irish Constitution.

The final result from Friday’s referendum shows that 64.85 percent voted Yes while 35.15 percent voted No.

The turnout across the country was less than half, coming in at 43.79 percent.

Meanwhile, as Michael D. Higgins was re-elected as the President of Ireland, he said he was delighted that the honor was bestowed on him once again.

In his acceptance speech, he said: “The people have made a choice as to which version of Irishness they want reflected at home and abroad.

“It is the making of hope they wish to share rather than the experience of any exploitation of division or fear.

“The presidency belongs not only to any one person but to the people of Ireland.

“I will be a president for all the people, for those who voted for me and those who did not.

“I am so proud of this country, I am proud to be a president for all of you and with all of you, and I look forward with joy and hope to all that we will achieve together.”