Almost 60% do not know correct date of referendums – survey

Michael Bolton

Irish adults are largely unsure of the correct date of next month's two referendums, with 59 per cent not knowing the votes will take place on March 8th.

The survey, carried out by iReach, asked 1,000 adults if they understood the two referendums, how they propose to change the Constitution, and the date the votes will be held.

Around 65 per cent of men and 54 per cent of women did not know the correct polling date.

Just under two thirds (64 per cent) of adults were aware that discussions were taking place regarding the referendums, but understanding of the two proposed amendments was very low.

Asked 'Do you understand the two proposed changes to the Irish Constitution?', 41 per cent said they had no idea of either, compared to just 17 per cent who said they understood both amendments.

One fifth of men said they fully understood both amendments, falling to 14 per cent of women.

Understanding of both amendments was also reportedly higher among younger people, with 29 per cent of those aged 18 to 29 saying they fully understand both, compared to 16 per cent of those aged over 55.