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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
National
Cormac O'Shea

Inside Steward's lodge: Take a look at where Taoiseach Leo Varadkar is staying during lockdown

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar is currently residing in Steward's Lodge which is a part of the Farmleigh Estate in the Phoenix Park.

This allows him sunbathe in the Park within 5km of his home - which he did on Sunday - but also has some more benefits.

A spokesperson for the Taoiseach said it has a secure set up for video connections which Mr Varadkar has been doing a lot of lately in this pandemic.

The spokesman said: "The Taoiseach was in the Phoenix Park with his partner Matt and two friends on Sunday afternoon in line with public health guidance.

"He was within 5k of the Stewards Lodge, where he is staying during the covid emergency.

Steward's Lodge in Farmleigh, Phoenix Park, Dublin (Collins)


"The Taoiseach has been in stewards lodge during the last few weeks as it has secure office and video conferencing facilities which allows him to work from home. Just like previous taoisigh, he pays a nightly fee to use it."

And here's some facts about the accommodation the country's leader has during the emergency.

Where is it?

The Steward's Lodge is a house which was originally part of the Farmleigh estate, alongside the Phoenix Park in Dublin. 

It is sometimes used as a residence by the Taoiseach, as is the case now.

It is almost hidden off near the back of the estate as to keep the privacy of the residents.

What would you find inside?

The residence was renovated by the Office of Public Works at a cost of nearly €600,000 back in 2005 but hasn't been the primary home of a Taoiseach since.

It has a small study, a kitchen, a conservatory and two downstairs reception rooms, while there are four bedrooms upstairs, one of which is an en suite.

Varadkar confirms phase 1 of reopening Ireland announcing new coronavirus measures

The property has been fitted with a security hut outside for gardaí to make it as secure as possible.

Previously €30,000 was spent landscaping its gardens.

Can Mr Varadkar stay there for free?

The Taoiseach does have to pay a nightly fee in order to stay in the residence.

Where is Leo Varadkar's primary residence?

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar lives in an apartment on the Carpenterstown Road in the Dublin West constituency normally.

However as the spokesperson said, Varadkar is currently residing in the Farmleigh property for work reasons.

What other Taoisigh have stayed there?

No Taoiseach has every stayed in the residence as a permanent home but Brian Cowen previously stayed there frequently during his tenure.

It is perfect for a Taoiseach not living in the capital if they wish to stay there.

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