THE BILL THAT will enact May’s Marriage Referendum has been signed into law.

The Presidential Commission signed the Bill earlier this evening, filling in for President Michael D Higgins who is currently in the United States.

Once a commencement order is granted by the Minister for Justice, same-sex couples will be able to get married.

These are expected to start taking place from next month.

In a statement this evening Senator Katherine Zappone and her partner Dr Ann Louise Gilligan have welcomed the news.

Speaking after the legislation was enacted this evening, Senator Zappone said, “Just like 100-years ago a defining moment has been reached in our development as a nation and together we are sending out a message to the world that IReland is a country where people continue to believe in equality for all.”

The couple, who married in Canada, will renew these in a celebration in Dublin in the new year.

The Presidential Commission is made up of the Chief Justice, the Ceann Comhairle of the Dáil and the Cathaoirleach of the Seanad.