Clarke calls for clarity on religious services

(Above) Deputy Sorca Clarke.

Deputy Sorca Clarke has called on the government to provide clarity to religious institutions on the rationale behind the closure of places of worship.

The Sinn Fein TD says that "during these times of hardship many people are looking for comfort and support which they would have gotten in their places of worship".

"Not only is there a spiritual aspect but there is also a huge psychological benefit from taking part in such services. There is also a social side to it. In many communities their churches, mosques, synagogues or temples are the hub of the community and provide an outlet for organising and interacting on a community level. It is for this reason I greatly sympathise with the religious communities that feel aggrieved by the restrictions on their activities.

“It must also be said that it is completely unacceptable for any group to flout the guidelines and put people’s lives at risk and we must always follow the best medical advice available to us.

“There is, however, some genuine questions on whether or not the restricted and socially distant form of worship could take place without putting others at risk. If this is the case consideration to limited forms of public worship should be given.

“If this proves to be impossible to carry out the government should engage with the leaders of these congregations in order to explain the rationale and discuss alternatives. Such an approach would engage the communities in the fight against Covid 19 and offer some comfort that to them in knowing that their views are being considered," she concluded.