Category: News

Almost half the clergy in an Irish Catholic diocese are ‘cocooning’ for their own safety as the coronavirus pandemic continues. The country is on lockdown as we battle to get the situation under control, people are not allowed to leave their homes unless it for essential reasons such as buying food or medicine.

Irish UFC legend Conor McGregor has vowed to spend $1 million on personal protective equipment for staff at hospitals in the Leinster province. It comes after he was contacted by Ireland’s Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe, who asked him to use his influence to encourage people to practice social distancing.

US President Donald Trump suffered a blow as he was denied planning permission to build a coastal wall on the edge of his golf course. Trump had wanted to build a wall to protect his Doonbeg resort in Co Clare.

Guinness have pledged to donate €1.2 million to support bar staff across Ireland who have been hit by the pub closures brought about the coronavirus pandemic. Over 7,000 pubs have been closed in Ireland since 15 March, which has left up to 50,000 people without work.

President Michael D Higgins has called on Irish citizens to follow the values of St Patrick as they face the coronavirus pandemic. He said that values such as solidarity and concern for fellow citizens are associated with Ireland’s patron saint – and are what is needed in the country now.

The Association of Catholic Priests have said that confirmations may need to be suspended due to the corona virus, as well as other precautionary measures. Regular mass on Sundays, or weekdays – as well as St Patrick’ Day – are currently expected to continue.

The shamrock bowl handover at the White House has been cancelled due complications caused by the coronavirus. The traditional St Patrick’s Day reception sees the Irish Taoiseach present a Shamrock bowl to the US President.

The St Patrick’s Day parade has been cancelled due to the potential spread of the coronavirus. The announcement was made after government officials held an emergency meeting to plan how best to tackle the disease.

Prince William and Kate Middleton spent some time with teenagers who have suffered with issues such as homelessness and mental health problems during their visit to Ireland. The couple visited a number of Irish schools and charities where they spoke with fans and took part in some serious discussions, as well as some fun activities.