Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 June 2023
141. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Social Protection the procedures in place to facilitate a registered solemniser for religious ceremonies to also solemnise civil marriages; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30123/23]
View answerThe requirements for solemnisation of marriage and registration of solemnisers are set out in Part 6 of the Civil Registration Act 2004, as amended.
Civil marriage ceremonies are solemnised by employees of the Health Services Executive (HSE). Applications to become a registered solemniser for civil ceremonies are made by the HSE on behalf of an employee and are approved by an tArd-Chláraitheoir. No provision is made for applications to be made other than by the HSE for the purposes of solemnising civil ceremonies.
Religious solemnisers are not authorised to solemnise marriages other than in accordance with a form of ceremony recognised by their religious body and approved by an tArd-Chláraitheoir.
I trust this clarifies matters for the Deputy.
