A Sinn Féin councillor in Co Monaghan has apologized after spending 10 days in the Canary Islands despite the party advising its elected representatives not to travel overseas.
Cathy Bennett confirmed she took a family holiday to Lanzarote between July 29 and August 9.
Spain remains off the Irish government’s green list, meaning anyone returning from the country or its islands must quarantine for 14 days.
The official government advice in Dublin is also that overseas travel should be restricted to essential functions.
In a statement, Ms Bennett said she went ahead with the pre-booked holiday because she couldn’t secure a refund.
She added that the family had adhered to quarantine regulations since returning.
“My family and I have restricted our movements since our return to Ireland and will do so for 14 days, in line with the public health regulations.
“Sinn Féin advised elected representatives that we should not travel abroad at this time.
“I offer my sincere apologies for this.”
In a follow-up statement to radio station Northern Sound, the councillor said that after returning from the holiday, she relocated to a home she owns in Co Donegal.
