“I’m seeing a girl from a nearby town and I am mad about her. She is kind, caring and even though she does not come from a farm background, she loves the land,” he writes.

“There is just one thing that I am a bit concerned about. She has a brother who has special needs and is absolutely devoted to him. He still lives at home, but the parents are getting on in years and my guess is that eventually my girlfriend will be the one caring for him.

“While it’s still early days, I’m hoping this relationship might go the distance, but if we move in together or get married, does that mean that her brother will come and live with us? I’m afraid to ask, and to be honest, I’m not sure if I would really like the answer.

“I know how selfish it makes me sound- and maybe I am- but that’s how I feel. I have never really had contact with anybody with special needs and I find it hard to know what to say or do when I’m around her brother. I never imagined that when I’d meet the girl of my dreams, I might be taking on a brother as well.

“I’m afraid to say anything in case I lose her, but it’s on my mind. I’d appreciate your advice.

“Leinster Farmer”

Miriam will offer her advice in the next edition of Irish Country Living, but what would you say or do in this situation?