Phil Hogan issues second apology over #golfgate a day after returning to Brussels
Missioner Hogan Trade, For Phil European
EU Commissioner Phil Hogan is "profoundly sorry" for his attendance at last Wednesday's Oireachtas Golf Society event.
The Trade Commissioner had declined early on Friday to apologise for his attendance at the dinner, which saw 80 people gather in a Galway hotel for an event marking the society's 50th anniversary.
He later apologised for "the distress caused" by his attendance, an apology which the government said "came too late".
Mr Hogan spoke to both Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Leo Varadkar yesterday, who both asked him to consider his position. A spokesperson said that both men believed Mr Hogan should have apologised earlier.
"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 actions."
Mr Hogan yesterday returned to Brussels on a Ryanair flight, with a spokesperson saying he was expected back in his office tomorrow.
In a statement issued today, Mr Hogan said that he was "profoundly sorry" for his actions."I wish to apologise fully and unreservedly for attending the Oireachtas golf society dinner on Wednesday night last. I want, in particular, to apologise to the wonderful healthcare workers, who continue to put their lives on the line to combat Covid-19 and all people who have lost loved ones during this pandemic. I acknowledge my actions have touched a nerve for the people of Ireland, something for which I am profoundly sorry.
"I realise fully the unnecessary stress, risk and offence caused to the people of Ireland by my attendance at such an event, at such a difficult time for all, and I am extremely sorry for this.
"I acknowledge that the issue is far bigger than compliance with rules and regulations and adherence to legalities and procedures. All of us must display solidarity as we try to stamp out this common plague.
"I thus offer this fulsome and profound apology, at this difficult time for all people, as the world as a whole combats Covid-19.
"I spoke to both the Taoiseach and the Tánaiste yesterday and I have listened carefully to their views, which I respect. I have been reporting to the President of the European Commission on all these matters in recent days."