Irish voters could have their say in five or more referendums next year. Briefing documents prepared for the Environment Minister Alan Kelly say at least three will go ahead - but there could be more.
Three topics that will be settled by a vote in the spring are reducing the voting age to 16, lowering the age barrier for Presidential candidates from the current threshold of 35, and allowing same-sex marriage in Ireland.
The Taoiseach Enda Kenny also confirmed last month that the same-sex marriage referendum would take place next spring.
While no firm date has been set, the Bills for the three referendums would have to be passed by the Oireachtas by February 27th if the votes were to be held before Easter, according to the documents.
Other possible votes, according to the Irish Times, include proposals on a new patent court.
This is a court dealing with patent and intellectual property law, which would be open to all European Union member states.
The Irish Times says a fifth referendum is referenced in the documents, but these details are obscured.
