Varadkar followed guidelines in park - spokesperson

A spokesperson for the Taoiseach has said Leo Varadkar was complying fully with Covid-19 guidelines while out socialising in the Phoenix Park in Dublin over the weekend.

In a statement, the spokesperson said the Taoiseach was within the 5km travel limit as he is currently living on the Farmleigh Estate, which is located in the park.

Pictures of the Taoiseach with his partner, Matthew Barrett, along with two friends were posted on social media yesterday.

According to the statement, the Taoiseach has been staying in Steward's Lodge during the last few weeks as it has secure office and video conferencing facilities, which allows him to work from home.

The statement adds that just like previous taoisigh, he pays a nightly fee to use it.

The current guidelines state groups of up to four people who are not from the same household can meet outdoors while keeping two metres apart.