Ireland’s prime minister Martin tests positive for Covid in U.S.

Ireland’s Prime Minister, Taoiseach Micheal Martin, has tested positive for COVID-19.

It means the prime minister will be unable to meet U.S. President, Joe Biden, later on Thursday as part of the traditional shamrock ceremony.

Martin had been due to speak at the 30th anniversary of the Ireland Funds Gala dinner on Wednesday evening but had to leave that gathering.

Martin’s speech was instead given by Irish Ambassador to the U.S., Daniel Mulhall.

“I know you will all join with me in wishing the Taoiseach a speedy recovery,” he told the audience in Washington.

It remains unclear how the White House St Patrick’s Day celebrations will now be handled.

It also casts doubt on whether Martin can return to Ireland for a
national day of remembrance on Sunday to commemorate those who died during the COVID-19 pandemic.