Sir, Congratulations to the Rev. Maurice Dooley on his letter to your newspaper (September 5th). I agree with his views entirely.
The new law is repressive on" personal freedom and on what is normally regarded as a joyful occasion. Instead, this law will only add inconvenience and stress to a couple contemplating marriage.
Surely a priest or minister is obliged by Canon Law, and the words of Christ, to solemnise a marriage once the banns have been read on three consecutive Sundays from the altar? Taking into consideration, of course, that all necessary formalities have been complied with e.g. letters of freedom from the persons' parishes. I was married under such rules 28 years ago. I don't recall Jesus ever requiring three months' notice as a prerequisite to marriage.
Why is our Government putting obstacles in the way of marriage? This draconian law will only serve to make getting married difficult. Perhaps crossing the border into Northern Ireland to have marriages solemnised would be the answer for some couples? Yours, etc., Coolfinn, Portlaw, Co Waterford.