The prime minister of Ireland, Micheál Martin, tested positive for COVID-19 during his trip to Washington, turning his St. Patrick’s Day visit with President Biden into a virtual one.
Mr. Martin tested positive late Wednesday and had to leave the 30th Ireland Funds Gala event at the National Building Museum. He was seen sitting maskless near House Speaker Nancy Pelosi during the event, according to Politico.
Mr. Biden spoke at the gala but is not considered a “close contact,” the White House said.
The prime minister had tested negative on an antigen test but was retested because a member of his delegation tested positive, according to the Irish Embassy.
A PCR test, which is more sensitive, came back positive so the meeting with Mr. Biden will be held virtually, the White House said in updated guidance.
Mr. Martin spent the night at the Blair House across from the White House. He is feeling well and self-isolating, his press secretary said.
For more information, visit The Washington Times COVID-19 resource page.
• Tom Howell Jr. can be reached at thowell@washingtontimes.com.
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