Varadkar on Phoenix Park pictures: 'You have to live your life'

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said "you have to live your life" when he was asked about the debate surrounding pictures of him in the Phoenix Park last week.

Pictures of Varadkar and his partner Matthew Barrett with friends in the Dublin park emerged on social media last week, sparking a debate on COVID-19 restrictions.

Some criticised Varadkar while others rushed to defend him. 

Varadkar has been living in the Steward's Lodge on the Farmleigh Estate in the Phoenix Park.

When asked whether he'd be going somewhere with less camera phones on FM104's Strawberry Alarmclock this morning, Varadkar replied: "Unfortunately there are camera phones anywhere there are people these days but that's the way it is.

"You have to live your life. And if you're afraid of photographs you'd never go out."

He said he'll "stay confined to the garden this weekend," adding: "I don't want to give my press officer a heart attack or anything."

Varadkar said: "It is ok for people to enjoy the weather, to get out, get some exercise - meet some friends and family outdoors - obviously not in anything more than a group of four and to try as much as possible to keep that two metre distance.

"The basic message is still stay at home but there are five exceptions and one of those is getting some exercise and getting out in the fresh air and the good weather if people can. Obviously wear sun screen if you're going to be out in the sun."