Malta says 'yes' to divorce plan
Malta has voted in favour of introducing divorce in a referendum on the tiny, staunchly Catholic Mediterranean island, local media reported.
The Times of Malta quoted Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi as saying that parliament would respect the will of the people and work on legislation to introduce divorce.
Gonzi, who had been against divorce, has conceded, according to the report.
The report said votes were still being counted. But, according to early returns, about 52% of people had voted in favour of divorce in Saturday's referendum.
Malta has long Catholic traditions and the church's influence on the country is still significant. The country also bans abortion. Pope Benedict XVI visited the island last year.