Health Minister thanks Ronan Glynn for his ‘tireless effort’ as interim CMO

HEALTH MINISTER Stephen Donnelly has paid tribute to Acting Medical Director, Dr. Ronan Glynn, for his work in office prior to Dr. Tony Holohan’s return tomorrow.

Donnelly thanked Glynn for her “tireless effort” since she replaced Holohan in early summer.

“I would like to thank Ronan Glynn for his tireless efforts during his time as interim CMO,” Donnelly tweeted.

“He took on one of the toughest roles in Ireland and did a fantastic job,” said Donnelly.

“There have been many mornings and nights at the office when difficult decisions were made and Ronan is a pleasure to work with at all times,” he wrote.

“It will be of great benefit to all of us to have the experience of [Tony Holohan] and Ronan Glynn as we face the challenging winter months. “

“I look forward to working with both of you. As always, our goal is to save lives, keep people healthy, and protect our healthcare, ”said Donnelly.

Dr. Tony Holohan stepped aside from his role as medical director in July to spend time with his wife Emer, who was diagnosed with a form of blood cancer in 2012, who was admitted for palliative care.

In July, Holohan said she wanted to “give my energy, attention, and all my time to Emer and our two teenage sons, Clodagh and Ronan.”

“I have spoken with the Taoiseach, the Minister of Health and other colleagues about this, and they have all kindly offered their support and best wishes to both of them,” Holohan said.

It is understood that Emer is still receiving care.

Holohan is set to resume his duties as medical director starting tomorrow.

Earlier in the week, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said that “as Dr. Tony Holohan prepares to return to office, I should thank Dr. Ronan Glynn for his extraordinary service, dedication and honesty over the past few months as interim CMO.

“It has been a pleasure working with him, in some difficult circumstances, making very difficult decisions,” Martin said.

The chief physician advises the government on health-related matters.

The role has become particularly prominent as the government and the Department of Health navigate the Covid-19 pandemic.

Both Holohan and Glynn have conducted regular press conferences to update the public on the status of Covid-19 in Ireland, as well as chairing the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET).