After discussing the project with a team of married couples and priests, he set up the bureau, based on the London model, run by volunteers, under the patronage of the bishops of Connaught. Initially, things moved slowly. However, after some press coverage and a very positive article in a leading women's magazine, enquiries started pouring in. Thirty-three years on, the bureau employs paid staff, and sees on average one wedding a fortnight. They recently started using computers - donated by one happy couple they introduced.
Applicants come from all walks of life.
Among the men there are a large number of farmers, businessmen, teachers, tradesmen, technicians and the odd doctor. The largest group among the women are nurses, followed by teachers, secretaries and a few doctors, consultants and executives. Ages range from 20 to 60, with the largest group in the 31 to 45 age range, although Fr Michael said they do get enquiries from the 20 plus age group and over 50s and 60s. Fr Michael said the bureau has received enquiries from as far away as England, Canada and America. Just recently he introduced a girl from Dublin to an Irishman working in San Francisco.