Questions have been raised about the Housing Minister's trip to Cavan and Longford on Monday.
Darragh O'Brien visited the towns to announce funding for major redevelopment works.
However, the trips - which took place in Level 5 restrictions - have raised eyebrows with reports a number of TDs have questioned why it took place.
Labour says there's no need for the Dublin Fingal TD to be travelling more than 5 kilometres from his home.
The Irish Independent claims the Minister is hoping to gather support from Fianna Fáil members for a possible party leadership campaign next year.
Speaking in Cavan on Monday, Minister O'Brien defended the trip:
Minister Darragh O'Brien also met with members of the Cavan County Council Executive during Monday's trip.
But Council CEO Tommy Ryan told Councillors this week that social distancing was adhered to and there was a limit on the number of people attending the meeting to comply with guidelines.
