Twitter has been accused of interference in Irish politics, after the managing director of its Irish operation claimed that a Yes vote for gay marriage would enhance the Irish economy.
At a meeting today involving the Taoiseach Enda Kenny and technology leaders - including Twitter Ireland managing director Stephen McIntyre - said a Yes vote would show that Ireland is inclusive and a good place for international investment.
Yes on #MarRef is as good for our value as it is for our values. Marriage equality is good for business & Ireland. pic.twitter.com/xffnsSHAhG
— Enda Kenny (@EndaKennyTD) April 16, 2015
Last month, Twitter and 378 other companies filed an amicus brief to the United States Supreme Court in support of same-sex marriage.
Facebook, Coca Cola and the New England Patriots were just some of the major companies who added their names to the brief.
In the brief, the companies argued that their recruitment is hindered in states where there is a ban on same-sex marriage.
Microsoft, which employs 1,200 in Ireland, has previously supported a Yes vote - saying countries with same-sex marriage enjoy a competitive advantage in attracting the top companies and workforce talent.
Mr McIntyre says it is a rare opportunity for the country to make international headlines and portray itself as an inclusive society.
He says a Yes vote would boost Ireland's reputation as an international hub for business.
But Twitter has been accused of interference in Irish politics.
The Iona Institute, which opposes same-sex marriage, says the comments mark a precedent of overseas companies trying to influence Irish voters.
Ben Conroy is a spokesperson for the institute.
Earlier this week former president Mary McAleese called for a yes vote in the May 22nd referendum, in an exclusive interview with The Right Hook on Newstalk.
