YES campaign leader predicts close referendum result

Óðinn Freyr Baldursson, chairman of Young European Federalists, expects a narrow result in the referendum, mbl.is reported. Speaking at a YES supporters’ election-night gathering at Hafnarhús on Saturday evening, he compared the vote to watching a football final.

“The atmosphere is very good. People are very stressed and excited, and emotions are running across the whole spectrum. This will be exciting and close. It is like watching a football final,” Óðinn said.

He hopes 55 per cent of voters will vote YES, but considers 52 per cent a realistic outcome. He said the NO campaign had been strong, while adding that it remained unclear whether its efforts had been effective.

According to the latest Gallup National Pulse poll, 60 per cent of young people said they intended to vote NO. Óðinn said he did not want to read too much into opinion polls.

“I believe young people are smart enough not to close themselves off from opportunities, but you never know what the nation thinks. I hope for the best,” he said.

Óðinn said a YES vote would create significant opportunities for young people, including better access to the housing market, a more stable currency, lower interest rates and lower inflation. He also said it could bring increased foreign investment and greater competition.

He plans to stay awake for the final results, which are not expected until the early hours of the morning.