Stephen Donnelly started experiencing COVID-19 symptoms on Tuesday afternoon before testing positive for the disease. The speaker of the house said “the cabinet must self-isolate” due to the “very serious” nature of the matter. The Dail, Ireland’s parliament, will be suspended for a week. Sean O’ Fearghail, the speaker of the lower house, told parliament: “Arising out of events today, the cabinet must now self- isolate.
“Therefore the possibility of proceeding with business does not arise and the house stands adjourned until Tuesday next or until I am directed (by the prime minister).”
On Tuesday Ireland reported 357 fresh infections.
This marked a significant jump from the daily average of 203 over the previous week.
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State broadcaster RTE reported that Mr Donnelly had requested a COVID-19 test on Tuesday afternoon.