This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: maryellenchambers Surnames: Classification: queries Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.britisles.ireland.may.general/7807.4.1.1.2.1.2.1.1.1/mb.ashx Message Board Post: I feel I must respond in defense of the many parishes both RC and C of I who have sacramental records. There is a shortage of priests in the Republic. They have numerous duties for their parish. Genealogy is not an A priority. Consider the number of emigrants of the 18th & 19th century as 2 M. Now their descendants number in the multi millions. They either return to Ireland or correspond trying to seek their ancestors records; sacramental and civil. Peak tourist season is May to Sept. but now even off season, the tourists are huge. The parish records are fragile, especially pre 1864, that do exist. The majority have been microfilmed for the local Heritage Center and by LDS. The idea was to assist this influx of people. However, in all the years we have done research in Ireland, we have found the local priest and/or his representitive quite courteous. We have ALWAYS called or written in advance for an appointment. In some incidences, we were told to drop the names/data off at the recotry. It would be mailed to us. Other times, an appointment was made and were assisted. We have never been told we HAD to leave a donation. However, we would never think of not insisting we leave one. Rarely, did we get our info immediatly. It was usually mailed to us or a note stating there was nothing in the records. In Mayo, the Civil Records 1864 onward are at the Registry Office on North Antrim, Castlebar. They do not accept credit cards. Come prepared with your data written. Give it to the clerk and be prepared to wait patiently. They are usually very busy. The Castlebar County Library has a wonderful genealogy section with people knowledgeable and able to assist at no cost but for a xerox copy. They do not have civil or sacramental records. I have never been aware that there was a place in each small town in Ireland where sacramental and civil records are available. Perhaps, "Ocean" could enlighten me and others if there is. For those traveling to Ireland for research, please, for all of us who have come before you and will be following after be courteous, polite and come prepared with the data you have and exactly what you are seeking. Don't leave the impression of the "Ugly" entitled Tourist. Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.