The Bishop of Waterford and Lismore says that the re-arrangement of some dates for Communions and Confirmations in the diocese is 'out of their control'.
Bishop Alphonsus Cullinan says they had provisionally allowed Communions and Confirmations to take place from July 1st, subject to public health guidelines.
However last week it was announced that First Holy Communions and Confirmations could take place from July 5th.
In a statement issued to WLR, the Bishop said that parishes may arrange for the celebration to take place from the 5th of July onward.
He said that the diocese 'fully understands that this can cause inconvenience for families, teachers and priests', and asked for 'patience and understanding as the situation is constantly developing'.
