Leinster's hopes of welcoming fans back to the RDS next month have been shot down by the Government.
The province had proposed that up to 2,000 supporters attend a trial match next month to coincide with games in the Guinness Pro14 Rainbow Cup.
But the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport & Media has said that Leinster's plans are not workable while countrywide Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions are in place.
In a statement released to the 42.ie, they said: "It is unfortunately the case that the country currently remains at Level 5 and that has the effect that no spectators are permitted at sporting events. Leinster Rugby have been advised of this.
“When the epidemiological situation and public health regulations allow, it is intended to begin to host test events in the summer starting with limited numbers of spectators.
“It is necessary that we continue to be guided by health officials on how best to allow safe attendance at sporting and cultural events. The Department will continue its constructive engagement with the sector in that regard.”
