Dutch Health Minister resigns after collapse in Parliament

Dutch health minister Bruno Bruins, who is responsible for tackling coronavirus, has resigned. Bruins collapsed in parliament on Wednesday night during a debate on the government’s handling of the crisis and said later that he was exhausted and needed to rest overnight at home.

The state information service did not give a reason for his resignation in a press release, but insiders say his departure is unexpected. Hugo de Jonge, Bruin’s colleague at the ministry who has responsibility for welfare and sport, is taking over his role while a new health minister is appointed.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said that it was very “unfortunate” that Medical Care Minister Bruno Bruins resigned earlier today, and thanked him for his work during the crisis.

Rutte said during a press conference that Bruins had decided to resign “over exhaustion,” and that Bruins had to rest and it was uncertain how long this would take. Health Minister Hugo de Jong will take over Bruins’ duties.

Via DutchNews