Divorce in Ireland

Divorce in Ireland was illegal until 1995.

Currently, it is still difficult to get a divorce in Ireland. Well, to be more thorough, let me note that there are 5 options one can take following a "marital breakdown."
1) Separate by fact. This is simply when the two spouses no longer cohabit with each other, but no legal action is taken.
2) Deed of separation. This is some sort of document signed by both spouses that states the marriage has broken down and makes provisions outside the courts (I think).
3) Judicial separation. This is made in the courts whenever there are special reasons for the breakdown, such as adultery, abuse, or clear evidence that the marriage has failed. If this is granted, the persons are still not permitted to re-marry.
4) Divorce. This may be granted only after the spouses have lived a part for 4 out of the 5 previous years.
5) Decree of Nullity. This is when it is determined that the marriage never was valid to begin with, as some vital component was missing, such as the consent of one of the persons.

Can you imagine? Spouses must wait 5 years and live separately for 4 of those years before a divorce can be granted. I don't really know the protocol in the US, and what different options may be available, but believe one can get a divorce within months.
Just think how society in the US would be different if divorce had only been made legal 13 years ago and still had such hoops to jump through before it could be granted.

I am a believer in marriage for life, and I am looking forward to making this covenant with my future husband.