This is a subscriber-only article
Minister for Agriculture Dara Calleary has apologised for attending an event in the west of Ireland on Wednesday night, where more than 80 people were present.
New Government guidelines for COVID-19 announced on Tuesday said “no formal or informal events or parties should be organised” at restaurants, cafes, pubs that serve food and hotel restaurants.
Some 81 people attended the event, as was first reported by the Irish Examiner, which was held by the Oireachtas Golf Society in Clifden Co Galway.
Minister Calleary said he had committed to attending the event a number of weeks ago.
“Last night I attended a function I committed to a number of weeks ago, having been asked to pay tribute to a person I respected and admired greatly.
“In light of the updated public health guidance this week I should not have attended the event.
“I wish to apologise unreservedly to the public, from whom we are asking quite a lot at this difficult time.
“I also offer this apology and my sincere regret to my Government colleagues,” he said on Thursday night.
SHARING OPTIONS: