Republic of Ireland overwhelmingly in favour of extending marriage rights to same-sex couples. On 23 May 2015, Ireland became the first country to legalise same-sex marriage by popular vote. Ireland became the first country in the world to introduce an environmental levy for plastic shopping bags in 2002 and a public smoking ban in 2004. Recycling in Ireland is carried out extensively, and Ireland has the second highest rate of packaging recycling in the European Union. It was the first country in Europe to ban incandescent lightbulbs in 2008 and the first EU country to ban in-store tobacco advertising and product display in
Ireland in the Eurovision Song Contest 2012 the order of which the participants performed. Ireland performed 18th, the very last of the first semi-final, having been given the chance to choose their position after winning a wildcard in the draw. After performing at the first semi-final on 22 May, Jedward made it to the top ten and qualified for the final on Saturday 26 May; they performed in the 23rd position and won 46 points, giving them a rank of 19th in the competition. Jury points awarded in second semi-final: Jury points awarded in the final: Ireland in the Eurovision Song Contest 2012 Ireland participated in the