Zappone controversy 'really unfortunate period for me', admits Simon Coveney

In an interview with the 'Irish Examiner', Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney talked about the Zappone controversy, Russian diplomats, and a 'fight for the soul of Irish politics', writes Ciara Phelan

'I’m not going to respond in a knee-jerk way to what Russia has done this week,' said Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney after Russia imposed a travel ban on 52 Irish politicians. Picture: Damien Storan/PA Wire

Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney has said the controversy surrounding his involvement in the appointment of ex-minister Katherine Zappone to a UN special envoy role was an “unfortunate” and “frustrating” period for him.

In a wide-ranging interview with the Irish Examiner, Mr Coveney confirmed he will remain in the Cork South Central constituency following rumours he would make a move to Cork East.