The organisers of Galway 2020 European Capital of Culture say there will be a "significant contraction" of this year's programme.

The board held a meeting on Tuesday to discuss the evolving situation regarding COVID-19.

In a statement, it said: "In light of the extraordinary challenges we are facing and the unknown timeline as a result of this ongoing public health emergency, the board of Galway 2020 today decided that a significant contraction of the programme is necessary.

"Decisions, which will be taken in the very near future, will be consistent with Government policy and will be in the best interest of the health of the public, our team, cultural partners and our volunteers."

It added that more detailed information will be provided in the days ahead.

The board also acknowledged and thanked its team and cultural partners for all of their hard work and commitment to date.

The official programme was launched last September as the largest and most complex cultural event ever undertaken in Ireland.

It was made up of over 1,900 events across 154 projects, 170 partnerships and collaborations - with local, national, European and international artists and cultural organisations from over 30 different countries.

The programme was to take place across the villages, towns, islands and city of Galway.

It was to be based around the four fire seasons of Ireland's ancient Celtic calendar - Imbloc, Bealtaine, Lughnasa and Samhain - in recognition of Ireland's historic traditions.

Last month, the opening ceremony was cancelled due to Storm Ciara.