Irish PM to recall parliament as politicians defy social distancing rule for a gathering

On August 23, Irish premier Micheal Martin anunced that Irish parliament will be recalled due to scandal of politicians which involved defying social distancing regulations for a cultural garing. He also added that EU trade commissioner Phil Hogan should consider resigning from his post. According to reportst, decision was t solely taken by Martin as he was accompanied by his coalition government partners, deputy prime minister Leo Varadkar and cabinet minister Eamon Ryan.

High profile political resignations in Ireland

scandal was reported by a local newspaper, two days ago before anuncement was made. Reports suggest that on August 19, politicians attended a Oireachtas Golf Society dinner where y defied all measures of social distancing. event was reportedly held just 24 hours after local government had reimposed coronavirus restrictions to battle vel coronavirus. It was attended by around 80 people. Even when government had imposed rule of "formal or informal events or parties" at restaurants and/or hotels, event was attended by lawmakers. According to reports by local media, people at event were seen sharing tables. 

Read: Ireland PM, Deputy Call On EU Trade Chief Hogan To Quit For 'breaching' COVID Guidelines

Reports suggest attendance at event has led to two high-profile political resignations so far. Irish agriculture minister Dara Calleary and deputy chair of parliament's upper chamber Jerry Buttimer have resigned from ir positions for attending event. Hogan, who also attended event, had to face public outr and is under police investigation for alleged breaches of public health regulations. However, Hogan's spokesperson said that he was under impression that all rules are being followed. Later, he apologised for " distress caused by his participation". Martin believes that apology from Hogan came late and he needs to give explanation for his actions.

Read: UK’s Johnson Seeks To Quell Brexit Fears In rrn Ireland

Hogan has led trade talks with United States and has a pivotal role in negotiations over Britain's post-Brexit trading relationship with bloc. He is considered a bid to become next director-general of World Trade Organization in June before deciding against running. Hogan is a former Minister from Deputy Prime Minister Leo Varadkar's Fine Gael party and was appointed to Commission's agriculture brief in 2014. He was given influential position of Trade Chief upon his reappointment last year.

Read: UK: Johnson Seeks To Quell Brexit Fears In rrn Ireland

Also Read: Ireland's PM Anunces Regional Lockdown In 3 Counties

(Im Credits: AP)