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The streets of Irish cities were quiet on St Patrick\u2019s Day in sharp contrast to the usual lively festivities.<\/p>\nThe streets of Irish cities were quiet on St Patrick\u2019s Day in sharp contrast to the usual lively festivities.<\/p>\n
Almost all the usual colorful parades that attract thousands were called off following medical advice for social distancing to slow the spread of Covid-19.<\/p>\n
Small numbers of European tourists turned out on O\u2019Connell Street in Dublin where the city\u2019s main parade usually takes place.<\/p>\n
And there were deserted streets in the popular Temple Bar area.<\/p>\n
With pubs closed, visitors instead entertained themselves by taking selfies and buying St Patrick\u2019s Day merchandise.<\/p>\n
Just one small religious parade took place at Saul, Co Down, where social distancing was observed.<\/p>\n
Instead, church bells across Dublin rang out at 11am to act as a reminder of the faith and as an expression of social solidarity.<\/p>\n
Catholic primate Archbishop Eamon Martin celebrated a live-streamed Mass service at Saint Patrick\u2019s Cathedral, Armagh, during which he urged an \u201coutpouring of the works of mercy towards the sick and vulnerable, and for a spirit of generosity and self-sacrifice, compassion and charity in Ireland, and across the world\u201d.<\/p>\n