Rural TDs are calling on the government to reopen places of worship in time for Easter.
The Rural Independent Group will raise the issue in the Dáil later, claiming Ireland is an “outlier” when compared to other European countries.
Under Level 5 restrictions, places of worship are only open for private prayer and services are held online.
Last month, the Association of Catholic Priests said it would be premature to open churches for Easter.
Northern Ireland will reopen click and collect services, as well as churches in its first step to lifting lockdown.
Strict Covid-19 restrictions have been in place there since December 26th.
A five-step plan was announced by the Stormont Executive yesterday with First Minister Arlene Foster describing it as cautious.
