The country's Archbishops are calling for Catholics to lobby their TDs to fast-track the return of normal Church services.

In a joint statement issued yesterday evening, the Bishops said they strongly believe people's freedom to worship publicly should be restored as soon as the current Level 5 restrictions being to be eased, saying it's been clearly demonstrated that church buildings are among the safest places for people to gather.

The Bishops say that, for people of faith not to be free to worship until restrictions return to level 2 is distressing and unjust.

They've also called for the number of mourners permitted at funerals to be increased with immediate effect, noting that in Northern Ireland this number has not been reduced below 25.

The Bishops are encouraging Catholics to make their views on these issues known to their local TDs.

The Taoiseach says he's 'surprised' at their statement, and is unable to make any guarantees about when Masses can return.

Masses are currently online only under level 5 restrictions - except for private prayer, small funerals and weddings.

The Bishop of Achonry Paul Dempsey, says public worship should be restored when level 5 restrictions end. .....