Ireland's Department of Communications will be run by a senior civil servant while Minister Patrick O'Donovan remains on sick leave. The temporary arrangement was announced as O'Donovan continued receiving treatment in hospital. Officials said the minister is expected to return to his duties once he has recovered. Until then, the department's senior official will oversee its work and the responsibilities normally handled by the minister. The arrangement gives administrative continuity for a portfolio responsible for communications policy and related public services. It is a short-term measure linked to O'Donovan's health rather than a permanent change of leadership. No details were provided about how long his absence is expected to last.