Covid-19 testing is commercially available at Ireland West Airport Knock now.

Air passengers, members of the public and local businesses can avail of the walk-in service.

It is operated by RocDoc, who run similar drive-thru testing facilities at Dublin, Cork and Shannon airports.

Two tests are available - however one called a LAMP is not recognised to be used for travel by the EU.

Chief Executive, David Rock, says the centre will have the capacity to test a large number of people.

The Parish Priest of Knock, Fr Richard Gibbons was the first person to be tested at the new facility today that opened at 12 noon.

Fr Gibbons described the test as not difficult and adds to the sense of safety for people travelling this yuletide.

Speaking to Midwest News he said it's difficult to see the airport closed at present, but said in a few days time it will be back in operation, however, traffic through it will be significantly down this Christmas compared to recent years, due to the pandemic.