"I would like to wholeheartedly thank the CEO of the HSE Paul Reid for his work over the past numbers of years, in particular for his extraordinary leadership shown during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The HSE, through Paul, and its employees, led from the front on behalf of the country during a once-in-a-century pandemic, and demonstrated the value and importance of a national delivery agency in public health.

"Through acute hospital services, community services, test and tracing, and a world-leading vaccination programme, the HSE played a crucial role in Ireland’s battle against COVID.

"I know from personal experience in my dealings with Paul throughout the pandemic, that he was available 7-days-a-week, almost 24/7.

"No call was too late at night or too early in the morning. He gave total commitment, along with his teams.

"I understand fully why Paul has decided to step down later this year to spend more time with his family after an extraordinarily demanding period.

"I wish him all the very best in the future."