Simon Coveney has gotten the all-clear for coronavirus following an appearance on RTE.
The Tanaiste confirmed last night that he was contacted by the HSE after appearing on an RTE show with a station employee who has since tested positive for Covid-19.
Top broadcaster and TV personality Claire Byrne tonight confirmed that she got the virus recently and Mr Coveney appeared on her show two weeks ago.
But Mr Coveney did not directly link the two.
He said: “Like thousands of people across the country, I was contacted in recent days by a member of the HSE contact tracing team to say I had been in close contact with a person who has tested positive for Covid-19.
“I followed all protocol and was tested.
“The result is negative for Covid-19.
“I would like to sincerely thank the HSE team for their professionalism and courtesy.
“Testing is going to be a reality for tens of thousands of people and it is vitally important that we all follow HSE direction in the interest of public health.”
Claire Byrne said her condition was was improving and her own GP will decide when it is safe for her to return to her work place.
The Laois native said in a statement: "I made the decision that I wanted you all to know this at the earliest opportunity.
"The HSE contact tracing system worked with me over the weekend.
"I am well now and through the peak of the condition and I want to thank everyone who has been in touch with me to express support and in particular, those in RTE who spent their weekend dealing with issues that arose as a result of my diagnosis."
Byrne will present the Claire Byrne Live programme this evening through Skype from her home.
