Same-sex marriage in the Republic of Ireland in Northern Ireland held the first of the new UK civil partnership registration ceremonies. The Government said that it would legislate following the report, but Taoiseach Bertie Ahern also said there might not be time to do so before the then upcoming election. Chaired by former TD Anne Colley, this working group included GLEN, the gay rights lobby organisation, who said they expected a recommendation for civil marriage. The group facilitated a conference on the topic in May 2006, as input to its reports which was attended by experts from other countries which have introduced civil unions and same-sex marriage.
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