SEVENTEEN NEW SEMINARIANS started studying for the priesthood in Maynooth at the end of last month.

The number is up on last year’s figure, but down on the 2013 intake when 20 young men began their studies. By contrast – in 1990, there were a total of 525 people studying in Ireland for the diocesan priesthood (including new entrants).

The Association of Catholic Priests warned after the 2013 intake that within a generation we’ll be left with “a tiny cadre of aged priests … struggling to say masses in a tiny complement of churches”.

This evening we’re asking if Catholic priests should be allowed marry… Do you think it would boost the numbers entering the vocation?

Poll Results:

Yes, allow them to marry. (16939)

No interest/no opinion. (1049)

No, they should stay celibate. (664)

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