The Taoiseach is at the centre of controversy after picnicking in the Phoenix Park just days after one of his department officials warned the public not to do so.
Leo Varadkar was severely criticised on social media after pictures of him and partner Matthew Barrett and two friends were posted online yesterday.
A spokesman said the Fine Gael leader was complying fully with Covid-19 guidelines.
But just last week an official from the Taoiseach’s own department warned the public not to hold picnics in parks or at beaches.
Department of the Taoiseach Assistance Secretary General Liz Canavan said: “If you’re visiting a public amenity try not to stay too long at the site or have picnics. Please do your exercise and then go home.”
Footage of the bare-chested Taoiseach enjoying the sun in the crowded park was trending on Twitter yesterday with many users slamming his behaviour. In one of the photographs he appears to be less than the required two-metre social distance from one of his friends while enjoying the sunny weather on Sunday afternoon.
But in the other photos he is definitely adhering to the rules and staying well apart when chatting to his friend.
It is clear from the photos that a picnic is taking place as Mr Varadkar and his partner and two friends have items spread around the ground and can be seen drinking.
But as the first phase of the lockdown was being lifted last week, the assistant general secretary of Mr Varadkar’s department specifically said picnics were still off limits. In a statement, the spokesman for the Taoiseach said Mr Varadkar was within the 5km travel limit as he is currently living on the Farmleigh Estate, which is located in the Phoenix Park.
The statement added the Taoiseach has been staying in Steward’s Lodge during the last few weeks as it has a secure office and video conferencing facilities, which allows him to work from home.
It also said that, just like previous taoisigh, Mr Varadkar pays a nightly fee to use it.
The photos and a short video had Twitter users divided over whether or not Mr Varadkar was flouting the Covid-19 restrictions. One said: “He’s telling all of us to stay at home. My mother hasn’t hugged my son in nine weeks but he can play with his buddies?”
Another posted: “If this pandemic was as serious as Leo was making it out to be he wouldn’t be topless and laughing in the Phoenix park. It’s a total joke.”
Other users have claimed Mr Varadkar should be entitled to enjoy his day off and has not broken any rules.
One said: “Group of four in an outdoor setting? Permitted. Not social distancing with someone you live with? Permitted.
“I’m no Leo Varadkar apologist, but you have not clearly stated what went on and why it was flouting the rules.”
A second person said: “The curtain twitchers in this country are unreal.
“The Irish leader today was out in the sunshine with his husband who he lives with and was social distancing from everybody else.
“We are allowed to meet up with people from another house. Leo Varadkar did nothing wrong.”
