Some 412 same-sex couples have been married in Ireland since the passing of the marriage equality referendum.

New figures from the Department of Social Protection show most gay couples got hitched in Dublin, with more than 200 weddings in the capital.

There were 43 same-sex marriages in Cork, 25 in Limerick and 17 in Wicklow - the three next most popular counties. 

Clare is the only country to have registered no marriages.

Demand for marriage celebrants has also increased as Ireland prepares to mark a year since the historic referendum result.

Marry Me Ireland, Ireland's only professionally accredited celebrant organisation, said it expects to officiate 400 weddings this year, a fifth of which will be between same-sex couples. 

Kieran Rose of the Gay and Lesbian Equality Network said many LGBT people have a new confidence in their status among their families and friends, and in wider society.

However, he added that there are still significant challenges to be overcome to ensure the community's safety.

Research has shown that many LGBT people experience high levels of bullying, harassment and violence, which makes it difficult to come out and to live openly, he said.

"Comprehensive and robust implementation of actions across all Government departments, particularly Education, Youth Affairs and Health, and with other key stakeholders – employers, schools, the gardaí, local authorities – are necessary."