Campaigners for the Yes vote in the same-sex marriage referendum have welcomed the news that same-sex marriages could be introduced as soon as possible.

The Minister for Justice and Equality, Frances Fitzgerald, has said today that she intends to have the bill enacted by the end of July.

“I am very conscious that many couples will want to get married as soon as possible. I am working to make that happen,” Ms Fitzgerald said.

“My intention is to seek Government approval for the Marriage Bill 2015 in June with the aim of introducing the Bill into the Oireachtas immediately thereafter so that the legislation can be enacted before the summer recess,” she added.

Couples who have already “registered their intention to enter a civil partnership will be instead able to get married once the law is enacted,” Ms Fitzgerald added. This means that anyone who has already planned a civil partnership, from August on, can get married instead.

"We’re delighted to hear the Minister will bring forward the legislation so quickly. I think the resounding decision of the Irish people to bring forward marriage has been accepted by the Government and the idea that there will be no delay is terrific," said Brian Sheehan, co-director of Yes Equality.

"There are many people out there who can’t wait to get married and shortening the delay as much as possible will bring great relief to them and great joy to their families," he added.