The Green Party Leader says he still supports the Foreign Affairs Minister but says the Katherine Zappone controversy has been a distraction.
It follows Simon Coveney’s appearance at an Oireachtas Committee yesterday where he apologised for contributing to the debacle.
The Opposition says there are still questions to answers despite the Government’s attempts to move on from the controversy.
Speaking on his way into Cabinet this morning, Environment Minister Eamon Ryan admits it’s been a distraction.
"I think it is, I think Simon himself would acknowledge that.
"There were mistakes made throughout the whole process and we need to learn lessons from that and make sure it doesn't happen again.
When asked if he supports Simon Coveney, Ryan responded "I do yes, I've worked with him over the years and I've always found him a highly capable politician."
