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6th August 2021
11:39am BST

According to the Irish Hotels Federation, hotels can only host gatherings if they are weddings. It is understood that "organised events, indoor and outdoor, are not permitted."
Zappone stated: "Prior to organising the event I enquired, and was assured by the Merrion Hotel, that the event would be in compliance with government Covid-19 restrictions and guidelines.”
The backlash is understandable when you consider how long both parents and children have been waiting for Communions and Confirmations to resume. The religious ceremonies can take place in a Covid-safe way, according to a Dublin Archbishop.
Earlier this week, Archbishop Dermot Farrell informed 200 parishes that they can go ahead with Communions and Confirmations if they feel safe.
He believes it is unfair to ban Communions and Confirmations because of Government's fear that they will lead to family gatherings and socialising. He believes these restrictions are discriminatory, especially after this week's scandal.
He said, "This is perplexing, as no such prohibitions were applied to other events such as sporting or civic events or other family occasions."
Archbishop Farrell stressed that the services can be run in a COVID safe way
"The format of such ceremonies should be adapted appropriately, as was the case in many parishes last year, with shorter, simpler and smaller ceremonies, which were nonetheless reverent and joyous."
The situation in Ireland is improving and families deserve a chance to celebrate these occasions.
Archbishop Farrell said that the "successful vaccination programme, the relaxation of restrictions in many areas of life and the proven record of parishes in conducting liturgies with great care for safety" should prove it is the right time to re-start Communions and Confirmations.Explore more on these topics: