An Taoiseach sounds optimistic about the possibility of churches opening this Christmas.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said that he believes churches will be open for Christmas, with some form of Level 3 now looking likely for December in Ireland.
Speaking to RTÉ, Martin said that a decision will be made towards the end of November with regards to the opening of churches, but that he believes it will happen.
He said: "I've met with the archbishops on that and of course Christmas has a strong spiritual theme to it and we will work with all faiths on their particular requirements.
"I think the churches will be open on Christmas week... we will make decisions towards the end of the month. I did say that we may look at Level 3 with modifications to it and that could apply to worship as well."
Speaking on the same show,
Martin also said that he believes a Covid-19 vaccine should be rolled out in Ireland in the first half of 2021.
"I think you're looking at hopefully the first half of 2021 that we can start rolling out vaccines, and maybe earlier for more vulnerable groups."
When asked by Bryan Dobson about people who are not members of vulnerable groups, Martin said: "The middle of next year... That would be my guesstimate at this stage."
