Archbishop criticises 'draconian' rule which may ban religious services

The Catholic Primate of All Ireland has called for a suspension of the 'harsh and unclear' regulation. File Picture: Jim Coughlan

The Primate of All Ireland and Archbishop of Armagh says he is seeking legal advice and an "immediate meeting" with health minister Stephen Donnelly over a regulation prohibiting certain religious services.

Statutory instrument 171 of 2021, which came into effect last Tuesday, and was officially announced in Iris Oifigiúil on Friday, would see many in-person religious gatherings outlawed, and only virtual services permitted.