Ireland polls were opened Friday allowing Irish citizens to cast their votes on whether to change their constitution and allow gay marriage into their nation.

The Irish will be the first nation in the world to be allowed to vote on the issue, according to The Telegraph, which would ask voters whether they want to add a statement to the Irish Constitution saying, "Marriage may be contracted in accordance with law by two persons without distinction as to their sex."

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On Sunday, a Sunday Times/Behaviour and Attitudes Poll was published showing that same-sex marriage support is higher than that of opposing parties. Those in support reportedly constitute 63 percent, while those who are not in favor of are 26 percent. The undecided Irish make up 11 percent. The data shows a 10 percent drop since March for those in favor.

Despite the data in the poll, Ireland is still dominated by the conservative Roman Catholic Church, and there are many clergy who are opposed to the constitutional change allowing for same-sex marriage. Meanwhile, the Irish government is a "yes" to the change, according to The Voice of America.

Just like several other countries in the world, the subject of gay marriage is diverging. The result of the vote will determine whether Ireland is liberal or still conservative.

Ireland will become the first ever country in the world to approve same-sex marriage through popular vote if the referendum is approved. The constitutional change will also allow rights for a civil marriage to gay and lesbian couples. However, they will not be allowed a church wedding.

Reports say a majority vote on "yes" is already expected, in large part because young voters usually do not vote.

Gay marriage is legal in more than a dozen countries in Europe. Other countries where it has been legalized include Argentina, Brazil, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa and Uruguay.

The gap between "yes" and "no" votes is reportedly still narrowing.

Last week, Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny told TV3's "Ireland AM" that he is "confident" that the referendum will be passed, though the "yes" and "no" numbers would be close.

Kenny confirmed this week that he would vote for a "yes," adding that Ireland will be making "history" in eradicating prejudice as well as unreasonable fears of difference.

Yes Equality is an umbrella group which spearheaded the "Yes" campaign in the European country. The group has been established by gay rights campaign factions, supported by civic society groups, grassroots campaigners, as well as political parties in Ireland, reported CNN.

The results of the Friday vote is expected to be announced Saturday.

TagsIreland gay marriage, gay marriage, Europe, same sex marriage, Irish Constitution, yes equality