Vote counting begins for Ireland's double referendum

Ireland has begun counting votes after a double referendum on proposals to modernize constitutional references to the make-up of a family and women's "life within the home". The two proposals -named the family amendment and the care amendment would make changes to the text of Article 41 in the Irish constitution.

All the major political parties support a "Yes-Yes" vote and until recently polls predicted a smooth passage for both on International Women's Day. Polls opened at 7:00 am GMT and closed at 10:00 pm. Nearly 3.5 million people were eligible to vote but turnout was less than 50 percent in most constituencies.