Over the past several years, at least in Mayo and Wexford, RC sacramental records were transcribed by the county heritage centers. Then returned to the the parish church. The Heritage centers charge a fee to people seeking data from those records. The parish church, in my experience does not charge a fee, but we always leave or send a donation when we seek sacramental records; usually 10 Euros per request. There is a shortage of priests in Ireland as there is in the USA. The people who work in the rectory are volunteers or payed a small salary for their services. They are not professional genealogist but do the best they are able. In our experience it can take months to a year to get a response either with or sorry no record from them. We have learned to adapt the virtue of patience while awaiting a response.
If traveling in the Republic,seeking pre 1864 sacramental records, we leave a list with pertinent information and a donation at the rectry office. We always call ahead to make an appointment and ask the best method for obtaining sacramental records at the church. Have always been met with courtesy. Plan ahead if in Ireland.

Mary Ellen Chambers