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2021
The Third Lockdown began on Thursday 31st December 2020 and lasted until Sunday, 9th May 2021. For the second year running, therefore, the Easter ceremonies were online only. The first public Sunday Mass in 2021 (with a ceiling on numbers and the usual health precautions still in force, of course) took place — imagine that!– on May 16th.
22nd October : the eagerly awaited Reopening planned for that day was marked by a sense of relief, yes, at many restrictions being lifted but also by a sense of disappointment. Since case numbers were once again very scary at over 2000, we had still not yet (after so long!) reached the stage where we could dispense with all the safety regulations/recommendations. So while the ceiling on numbers in churches was lifted, social distancing, mask-wearing, hand-sanitizing etc. were all to continue. See the diocesan guidelines here.
‘Attendance at funerals to be kept to a maximum of 10 people.’ (NOTE, 21.5: Based on a sample of three funerals in our parish since Monday, the attendance figures were approximately 12, 20, and 35. This shows how hard it is for us personally right now, in certain situations, to adhere to general government guidelines.)
Phase 2 : Monday 8th June Note now that “up to 25 immediate family and close friends may attend funeral services”.
Phase 3 : Monday 29th June Under the heading Social : Indoor Gathering we read: “Indoor gatherings of up to 50 people when conducted in line with public health advice are permissible.”
Exiting Lockdown and entering Living with Covid + Five Levels of Restrictions
1st December: Re-opening + Level 3 etc. restrictions. Public Masses for Christmas + cap on congregation numbers.
30th December: Third Lockdown
ALONE has has available a national support line and additional supports for older people who have concerns or are facing difficulties relating to the outbreak of COVID-19 (Coronavirus). Professional staff are available to answer queries and give advice and reassurance where necessary. The support line is open seven days a week, 8am – 8pm, by calling 0818 222 024.
