The Tanaiste has removed the party whip from Mayo Fine Gael Senator Paddy Burke for attending an Oireachtas Golf Society event in Galway on Wednesday.

Leo Varadkar said in a statement on social media that the event 'should not have happened.'

The Fine Gael leader said that he understood  how difficult the restrictions have been on the public and acknowledged the sacrifices people have made.

He referenced the cancellation of family occasions like funerals, christenings, weddings and holidays.

Mr Varadkar said 'as representatives we should lead by example.'

He said that 'In recognition of the seriousness of this matter, I have removed the party whip from Senators Jerry Buttimer, Paddy Burke and John Cummins.'

He concluded saying that 'all have apologised profusely and accept they made a serious error of judgment.'