In Ireland there were 21,053 marriages in 2018 including 664 same-sex marriages - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 5 - 2020

1. Age Requirement: Both partners must be at least 18 years old or over 16 with parental/guardian consent. 2. Voluntary Consent: Marriage must be consensual; both parties should be willing to enter into the marriage freely. 3. Capacity to Marry: Individuals must not be already married or too closely related. 4. Witnesses and Registration: Two witnesses are required to be present during the marriage ceremony, and the marriage must be registered at a designated office, such as a registry office, church, or approved venue.

1. Expectation Management: Pre-marriage courses help couples discuss and align their expectations regarding married life, which prepares them for potential challenges. 2. Improved Communication: These courses emphasize open communication, equipping couples with skills to navigate conflicts and enhance understanding between each other. 3. Problem-Solving Skills: Couples are encouraged to address potential issues before they arise and learn strategies to resolve conflicts effectively.

Marriage counselling offers a supportive environment where couples can address conflicts and improve their relationship dynamics. Counselors facilitate discussions about marital issues, helping partners explore their feelings and develop better coping strategies.

Legal separation allows couples to live apart while remaining legally married. This process involves obtaining a legal agreement outlining the rights and responsibilities of each partner, covering aspects like financial responsibilities and child custody arrangements, typically without dissolving the marriage.