Taoishock Micheál Martin to have a rapid Covid test after French President Emmanuel Macron tests positive

Taoiseach Micheál Martin. Photo: Julien Behal Photography

Neil Fetherstonhaugh

December 17 2020 01:23 PM

Taoiseach Micheál Martin is to have a rapid Covid-19 test this afternoon after French President Emmanuel Macron tested positive for Covid-19.

Mr Martin attended the European Council meeting with Mr Macron last Thursday and Friday.

A spokesman said Mr Martin had already undergone a test on his return from Brussels and the result had been negative, but would limit his contacts and get another test as a precaution.

EU officials had been in contact to say that no other leaders had tested positive after Mr Macron’s test, he said.

A spokesman for the Taoiseach said he will postpone engagements this afternoon pending an outcome of the test.

It is expected the Taoiseach will be tested quickly and will have a result this afternoon.

Earlier today, Mr Macron's office confirmed that the French President Emmanuel Macron had tested positive for Covid-19, adding he had been tested after the "onset of the first symptoms".

President Macron will now, in accordance with national regulations, "self-isolate for seven days. He will continue to work and carry out his activities remotely," it said.