A new directive issued by Bishop of Meath Dr. Michael Smith means that funeral eulogies including songs, poems and readings, that do not fall within religious guidelines could be banned.

The guidelines would apply in diocese of Bishop Smith which includes most of counties Meath and Westmeath, plus parts of Offaly, Longford, Louth, Dublin and Cavan.

The Bishop has warned against the 'dumbing down' at Catholic funeral services and says that priests must uphold the 'integrity of the church'.

He says that appreciations or eulogies should not take place in the church, but that they may take place after the Rite of Committal in the cemetery or later.

They claim that a "reflection of a prayerful nature" can be given after Communion - but that this should be agreed beforehand with the priest and that clear arrangements are in place for signing books of condolence.

Fr. Paddy Byrne is a Curate in Portlaoise. He does not agree with the ban but admits there can be times where elements of a requiem mass are inappropriate.