Dr Tony Holohan to step away temporarily as his wife is ill
The country's chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan is to temporarily step away from his role.
Dr Holohan announced in a statement that he would be relieving his duties to spend more time with his family.
In an emotional statement, he revealed his wife has been receiving palliative care for a form of blood cancer, which was first diagnosed in 2012:
"As a husband and father, and as a public health doctor, I'm conscious that we've been through tough times together over the last number of months," he said.
"Many families across the country have been affected by the course of COVID-19 suffering pain and the loss of loved ones."
He added that he's hopeful everyone can stay vigilant and keep their social distance.
Dr Holohan has requested privacy at this time.
Tributes
The Taoiseach Micheal Martin has praised the work of Dr Holohan throughout this period.
He said said: "I would like to thank Dr Holohan on behalf of myself and the people of Ireland for helping to guide this country through the COVID-19 emergency.
"Every home in Ireland has come to know Dr. Tony Holohan.
"His leadership during the pandemic has given us all confidence that the decisions being made are based on solid public health advice.
"As a country we owe him and his family a great debt of gratitude".
The deputy chief medical officer Dr Ronan Glynn will take over the role.
