Following a drive supported by Colin Farrell, comedian and television presenter Dara Ó Briain and Irish Taoiseach Enda Kenny, thousands of people have registered to vote in Ireland ahead of the country's expected referendum on same-sex marriage

Following a drive supported by Colin Farrell, comedian and television presenter Dara Ó Briain and Irish Taoiseach (prime minister) Enda Kenny, thousands of people have registered to vote in Ireland ahead of the country's expected referendum on same-sex marriage, reports Pink News.

Yes Equality, a joint effort by various groups, was set up to encourage young and disenfranchised people to register to vote amid fears that voter apathy and vocal religious groups could combine to see the referendum – expected in early 2015 – rejected.

A campaign by the Union of Students in Ireland estimated that an extra 20,000 students have since registered to vote.

Although the deadline for registration passed on Tuesday, there will be another chance to register for the referendum nearer the time.

Tiernan Brady of Yes Equality said:

“The response from people right across the country has been amazing. Tens of thousands have registered to vote and thousands more have joined Yes Equality. The positive reaction bodes well for turnout at the upcoming referendum on civil marriage equality in 2015.

“But registering to vote is only the first step. Next year will be a once-in-a-generation moment. The critical decisions about our futures are made by those who not only are registered, but who make their voices heard on polling day.

“There will be a further opportunity to register to vote once the date of the referendum is called.

“Between now and then, it is up to the tens of thousands of people energised by our voter initiative to begin the conversation with friends, families and loved ones as to why making their voices heard on polling day is so important.”