The referendum on gay marriage is set to take place in May

ONE of the country's largest colleges has altered its summer examination schedule in a move that will enable its students to vote in the Marriage Equality Referendum.

Dublin City University (DCU) President Professor Brian MacCraith said the decision "reflects our commitments to supporting our students in playing their role as active citizens."

Prof MacCraith added that this approach to examinations would be taken "for major elections and referenda from now on" and not just the vote on May 22.

"Although it is examination week, DCU has decided not to hold examinations on the afternoon of May 22. This will enable students to travel home to any part of the country in time to vote," he told the Irish Independent.

Tiernan Brady, Policy Director of the Gay and Lesbian Equality Network (GLEN), said it was essential that college goers were given every opportunity to cast their vote.

"It's so important that we can encourage a high turnout and make it as easy as possible for people to vote and that includes students who may live far away from where they are registered," said Mr Brady.

Irish Independent