Taoiseach and Tánaiste ask Kilkenny’s Phil Hogan to ‘consider his position’ as EU Commissioner over golf dinner controversy

Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Leo Varadkar have asked former Kilkenny TD Phil Hogan to “consider his position” as EU Commissioner after he attended this week’s controversial Oireachtas Golf Society dinner in breach of Covid-19 regulations.

A Government spokesperson said in a statement: “The Taoiseach and the Tánaiste did speak with the Commissioner today and asked him to consider his position.”

“They both believe that the event should never have been held, that the Commissioner’s apology came late and that he still needs to give a full account and explanations of his action.”

Reports this morning say Mr Hogan’s position is looking increasingly intenable, with some speculating the Kilkenny man will tender his resignation before the weekend is out.