Tóibín announces skin cancer diagnosis

Meath West TD, Deputy Peadar Tóibín announced that he has been diagnosed with skin cancer.

Making the announcement via social media at the weekend, Mr Tóibín shared the news on Twitter and Facebook along with the Baz Luhrmann song, Everybody's Free To Wear Sunscreen.

The former Sinn Féin member and now-leader of the Aontú party that he himself founded in January 2019, received hundreds of messages and well wishes for a speedy recovery on Sunday.

"Good people, I'll be missing for a few days if you are looking for help,” he wrote in his Facebook announcement.

“Got a skin cancer diagnosis a few weeks back and I'm in hospital for an operation.

"Our offices will still be open so don't hesitate to call if you are in a bind," he continued, adding that "I'm confident that I'll be back, shoulder to the wheel in a few days."

Mr Tóíbín finished the post with the advice to "wear sunscreen and a hat".