Archbishop Eamon Martin and Taoiseach Micheál Martin in talks over Lent & Easter services and funeral attendee numbers

The church leaders said they were particularly keen to see in person worship return during Lent and with the approach of Holy Week and Easter.

The Archbishops shared their concern that life at present is particularly stressful and difficult for people emotionally, mentally and spiritually, and asked that public worship resume when an easing of restrictions is considered. They expressed a strong desire that people might gather safely during Holy Week and Easter and urged consideration of an increase in the number of the bereaved who may attend funeral Masses.

The Taoiseach said the concerns raised at the meeting would be considered.

Micheál Martin also thanked the Archbishops for their support and acknowledged the importance of the Church community in people’s lives at this time of stress and worry.

He outlined the ongoing concerns regarding the spread of the virus, particularly the new variants, stressing that any increase at all in mobility can have serious consequences for public health and put pressure on the health service.