03/03/2023

The Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, and the Health Minister, Simon Harris, will update the Cabinet today on the Covid-19 crisis.

The Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, and the Health Minister, Simon Harris, will update the Cabinet today on the Covid-19 crisis.
Meanwhile, it’s likely that a joint letter from Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael on government formation will be presented to the Green Party later today.
Last Thursday, the Green Party published a 6-page letter containing 17 key questions it wanted Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael to answer before deciding on whether or not to enter into formal talks on government formation.
Yesterday, a Fine Gael spokesman said the issues raised in the detailed letter were being considered closely, while Fianna Fáil sources suggested last night that the reply was likely to be sent to the Green Party today.
The next step in this lengthy process would be a meeting between the three party leaders – Micheál Martin, Leo Varadkar and Eamon Ryan – however no date has yet been confirmed.
Meanwhile, the Cabinet will receive updates on the Covid-19 crisis later today from the Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar; Health Minister, Simon Harris; and the Minister of State with special responsibility for Disability Issues, Finian McGrath.
It’s understood that among the issues to be discussed are hospital admissions; Intensive Care Unit capacity; and supports for nursing homes and other sectors.
A second Cabinet meeting is scheduled to take place on Friday, after which it’s possible Mr Varadkar will disclose what decisions the government has taken regarding easing or maintaining coronavirus restrictions.