Chief Medical Officer takes time out to care for his wife

The government says we as a country owe Dr. Tony Holohan and his family a great debt of gratitude for his handling of the Covid-19 crisis.

The Chief Medical Officer is taking time out from his role to be with his two teenage children and his wife Emer, who has cancer and has been receiving palliative care since Saturday.

Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Ronan Glynn, takes up the role immediately.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin thanked Dr. Holohan, saying his leadership during the pandemic has given us all confidence that the decisions being made are based on solid public health advice.

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly says it's a very difficult time for the Holohan family.