A new group has been launched to campaign for a yes vote in the Marriage Equality Referendum this May.

Faith in Marriage Equality says the diversity of beliefs within all religions allows for a yes vote in the poll on same sex unions.

Those behind the group say they're concerned about the assumption that all religions and all religious people are against the referendum.

They held a conference in Dublin yesterday to debate the issues - organiser Linda Hogan is a theologian and Vice Provost of Trinity College:

Meanwhile, the Bishop of Elphin has urged his parishioners to be mindful of the hurt that can be caused during the referendum campaign.

Speaking in Knock Kevin Doran says there is a moral responsibility on every Christian and every citizen to make a judgement about the forthcoming referendum.

He has reiterated the Roman Catholic Church's stance that marriage is between a man and woman and says people should be conscious - in the manner in which views are being expressed - of the hurt that people may be experiencing.

Originally posted at 10.27am