Dr Tony Holohan's wife Emer has tragically passed away after a long-term illness.
The Chief Medical Officer took a leave of absence last year to care for Emer after she entered palliative care.
A statement on RIP.ie read: "Dr Emer, 19th February, 2021, Terenure, Dublin.
"Peacefully at Our Lady's Hospice, Harold's Cross following a long illness, in the company of her husband and children.
"Deeply regretted by her father Ronan, sisters Orla and Niamh.
"Emer will be forever remembered by the Holohan families and her wider circle of dear friends."
Tonight, following the news, the Taoiseach sent his condolences to Dr Holohan, as well as his kids Clodagh and Ronan.
In a statement, Micheal Martin said: "Our thoughts and prayers are with Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan, and his children, Clodagh and Ronan, today following the sad passing of his wife Emer.
"Dr Emer Holohan made a significant contribution to the health service, including her work on the Health Strategy when I was Minister for Health.
"Tony and his entire family have given so much to this country since the start of the pandemic.
"At this time, I would ask for as much space and privacy to be given to them as possible."
Dr Holohan has been the face at the front of Ireland's Covid-19 response for over a year now.
He has chaired dozens of press briefings and won plaudits for his composure and straight-talking approach amid a crisis unprecedented in scale and scope.
During his last leave of absence, and over recent weeks, Dr Ronan Glynn has taken on the role of Acting Chief Medical Officer.
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