CNI, This is a sample DIY document for Uk guy's,not sure if it would be very different in an Eu country.
On a single piece of A4 paper type the document [Centre]
STATUTORY DECLARATION
I, YOUR NAME of YOUR ADDRESS
DO SOLEMNLY AND SINCERELY DECLARE as follows:-
My full name is YOUR NAME
My date of birth is YOUR DATE OF BIRTH and my place of birth is YOUR PLACE OF BIRTH.
My nationality is British and my passport number is YOUR PASSPORT NUMBER.
My full and permanent address is YOUR PERMANENT ADDRESS United Kingdom.
I am permanently resident in the UK and have lived in the UK all of my life. (if not true, then explain other countries of residence)
I am currently a YOUR OCCUPATION (stating if self or employed).
I was previously married to NAME OF PREVIOUS WIFE but was divorced on DATE OF DECREE ABSOLUTE as shown on the certified copy of the decree absolute attached hereto. I remain divorced to this day.
The section above is relevant if you are divorced. If you have never been married then delete this whole section. If you are a widower then replace section with:
I was previously married to NAME OF PREVIOUS WIFE AS SHOWN ON DEATH CERTIFICATE but she passed away on DATE OF DEATH ON DEATH CERTIFICATE as shown on the certified copy of the Death certificate attached hereto. I remain a widower to this day.
I am single, free to marry and know of no legal impediment to my marrying.
AND I make this solemn Declaration conscientiously believing the same to be true.
SIGNED AND DECLARED at
By
on
Before me
Leave the SIGNED and DECLARED section clear. Your notary will advise you where to sign.
Take this Statutory Declaration (unsigned) including your Passport, Birth Certificate, proof of occupation and address in the form of utility bills. The decree absolute divorce paper or death certificate to your chosen notary for witnessing and signing.
Maybe you could fax them a copy, just to make sure it's in line with Irish law before you head off to the notary's office or get them to draft it for you! As ever there will be a cost! It's got to be faster than 6 months!:D
A quote from the Chinese embassy in London "All applications can be submitted in person or through a courier, but a power of attorney of the applicant is required. Application by post is not accepted" You also need to download an application form. Only takes 5 days,cost under 30 pounds.
I don't know about the Irish side of things but us lucky Uk guys also need a "notice of intention to marry"