Couple separated for first time in 63 years of marriage

An elderly couple, inseparable during 63 years of marriage, wept yesterday as they pleaded to be reunited after being split up by red tape governing the Fair Deal nursing home scheme.

Michael Devereaux, from Co Wexford, who will be 91 next month, and his wife Kathleen, who will be 85 tomorrow, said they are heartbroken after Michael secured a nursing home bed, but Kathleen did not.

Michael said that he misses his wife desperately, is waking at night and crying.