The Taoiseach has apologised for comments he made in the Dáil about sinning priests.
Last week Leo Varadkar compared Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin to a priest who was preaching good things but sinning behind the altar.
The comments provoked a backlash and serious offence from the church.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar apologised for the remarks this afternoon:
"I made some remarks in relation to sinning priests this time last week on Leader's Questions.
They caused offence to people that I never intended to offend.
"I wish to apologise to anyone I offended including the Deputy (Micheál Martin) and I withdraw the remarks," Mr Varadkar concluded.