A referendum on whether to provide civil marriage for lesbian and gay couples could take place in early 2015.

Speaking at a Labour Youth Conference in Limerick yesterday, Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore confirmed that the referendum would take place in the lifetime of the current government.

A Yes Vote would give children raised by lesbian and gay couples greater protection under the law, while also providing access to civil marriage.

Director of the Gay and Lesbian Equality Network Tiernan Brady says it is time to give lesbian and gay couples equal status.