Joe McCarron (67), late of Diamond, Dungloe, died in Letterkenny University Hospital on Friday during his second stint in the hospital in a matter of weeks after contracting Covid-19 and his funeral was held on Sunday.

His passing followed what became a high profile incident after a video emerged online of anti-vaccine protesters encouraging Mr McCarron to leave the hospital against the advice of doctors.

It was reported that at least five people left St Crona’s Church in Dungloe after they were offered face masks but declined, and they did not adhere to social distancing rules.

It is believed that at least two of the people were members of the Common Law Movement.

Gardaí confirmed they attended the church and provided advice to those present.

A spokesperson for An Garda Síochána said, “Gardaí received report of a number of people inside a church not wearing face coverings in Dungloe on the 26th September 2021.  Gardaí attended and provided advice to those present.”

Gardai said no offences were disclosed and enquiries were ongoing.

A spokesperson added: “The Health Act 1947 (Sections 31AB and 31AD) (COVID-19) (Operation of Certain Indoor Premises) Regulations 2021, SI 385/2021, came into operation on the 26th July 2021. Members of An Garda Síochána are not a ‘compliance officer’ in respect of these Regulations.”

Mr McCarron had been in hospital for a number of days after contracting the virus.

During his first stay in hospital earlier this month, Mr McCarron was the subject of a video which showed anti-vaccine protesters urging him to sign himself out of hospital.

The people filming the video could be heard telling Mr McCarron that he would “die if he remained in hospital” while a doctor can be heard advising Mr McCarron to remain in hospital.

After the pensioner left LUH against medical advice, he was readmitted two days later with serious breathing difficulties. Mr McCarron was placed on a ventilator and his condition appeared to be improving. Sadly, however, he passed away in the hospital on Friday.

Gardaí have now appointed a senior investigating officer to oversee an investigation into the incidents at LUH  but no further comment is available at this time.

The Garda spokesperson said: “We can confirm that An Garda Síochána continues to investigate a number of recent incidents which occurred at Letterkenny University Hospital.  A senior investigating officer is appointed to oversee the investigation. An Garda Síochána has no further comment at this time.”