Ferns diocese will leave Communion and Confirmation decision to parishes

Raphoe priest, Fr Eamonn Kelly said he is happy to start planning for Confirmations and First Holy Communion ceremonies because they are doing so “under the strictest protocols” and are taking “every precaution” possible

The Bishop of Ferns has said that church communities within the diocese will be allowed to make their own decision on whether to proceed with Frist Communion and Confirmation ceremonies.

In a statement, issued on behalf of Bishop Gerard Nash, a spokesperson for the diocese says priests are asked to speak with "those involved ... with a view to deciding what is best in terms of safety, unity and overall well being".