Ireland’s State-run postal service An Post has denied that a stamp produced for Valentine’s Day is intended to back a Yes vote in the forthcoming same-sex marriage referendum.

According to The Irish Catholic newspaper, the latest stamp, employing the word ‘LOVE’ in multi-coloured lettering, also includes, as part of the red letter ‘E’ an equals sign, an internationally recognised symbol for support of gay marriage.

The stamp’s designer, Oonagh Young, has admitted the inclusion was deliberate on her part. In a social media message she stated: ““I designed the ‘love&marriage’ stamp for An Post, including red equals symbol for marriage equality. Spread the love.”

However, when contacted, a spokesman for An Post insisted that the stamp was designed some time ago and has “no connection with any debate or referendum”, and went on to describe Ms Young’s comment as “poorly worded”.

One legal expert has now dismissed An Post’s defence, pointing out that Ms Young’s message is very clear, making it “impossible” for the State body to deny the stamp’s message.

Dr Seán Ó Conaill, a lecturer in constitutional law at University College Cork said An Post, as a State body should be careful about appearing partisan on the referendum.

“We have such a bad record in this country of the Government interfering in referendum campaigns, that we should be more cautious,” Dr Ó Conaill said.