Labour leader Alan Kelly has apologised for not wearing a mask on the Luas because he was “distracted watching Man United”.
The Tipperary TD was snapped with headphones in while looking at his phone on the green line on Tuesday.
In a statement, Mr Kelly said: “While getting the Luas home last night I obviously inadvertently didn’t have my mask on for a period and I want to apologise for this mistake.
“I was distracted while watching the Man United match on my phone and adjusting my headphones at the same time.
“We all make mistakes. Sorry.”
The Labour Party said that the photo, published by the Irish Independent, shows a mask hanging from Mr Kelly’s ear.
The picture emerged the day after Mr Kelly called on all TDs and Senators to sign a Labour pledge to support the rollout of the COVID vaccine.
He said: “I am a strong supporter of all the public health guidelines and rules, and always endeavour to wear my mask where required.
“My track record on calling for clear guidelines around mask-wearing speaks for itself.”
Manchester United lost 3-2 to RB Leipzig in a Champions League match Tuesday evening.
