Limerick minister falls ill after answering questions in Dáil Chambers
A LIMERICK Minister of State has fallen ill while answering questions in the Dáil Chamber, it is understood.
Minister of State and Limerick County Fine Gael TD Patrick O’Donovan fell ill this Thursday afternoon.
It is understood that Minister O'Donovan is in a stable condition and receiving medical treatment but it is not known what caused the medical episode.
The Minister of State for the Office of Public Works (OPW) and the Gaeltacht appeared to be struggling to speak when answering a question under topical issues. He was later attended to by parliamentary ushers of Leinster House and Minister of State Jack Chambers before being rushed to St James's Hospital.
The Ceann Comhairle Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the minister if he was “alright to respond” to a question from Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív relating to health.
The Minister wished to continue and responded to the question, audibly struggling to do so.
More to follow.