1/3 of Irish couples marry after only a year together

A survey released this week by Accord, the Catholic Marriage Care Service, has shown that 33 per cent of Irish couples marry after only a one-year long relationship.The survey entitled “Married Life – the First 7 Years” is the first comprehensive study of its kind undertaken in Ireland.

According to the Shay Ellis, the National Director of ACCORD the research analysed “attitudes underpinning courtship, cohabitation, relationships, marriage and family size.”

“It also looks at money, overall happiness, and the role of the Church and State in supporting recently married couples.”

Bishop of Killaloe and President of Accord, Willie Walsh said: “This survey is clearly good news about marriage. It reassures us that the deeply felt human need for a life long loving relationship – which is marriage – is alive and well.”