Minister Barry Cowen has offered no further explanation as to why he was on a learners permit when he was caught drink driving in 2016.
The Minister apologised to the Dáil last night saying it was a stupid mistake for which he is profoundly sorry.
He said he will now focus his full attention on his work as a TD and Minister.
Advertisement
The Taoiseach has described Barry Cowen's statement as a ' clear abject apology'.
A spokesperson for Micheál Martin says it's clear the Agriculture Minister deeply regrets what happened and his remorse is genuine.
Barry Cowen offered this explanation when addressing why he was on a learners permit at the time of the offence:
Advertisement
But our political correspondent Sean Defoe isn't sure a line has been drawn under the controversy:
