Dr Tony Holohan will return to his post as chief medical officer next week.
He stepped back from the role in July because his wife was receiving palliative care, with Dr Ronan Glynn filling in.
Dr Holohan had become a well-known figure during the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Mural by artist Niall O'Loughlin
Health Minister Stephen Donnelly says his return is very positive news;
"Dr Holohan has done an extraordinary job, sure he became a national hero when Covid arrived, before Covid arrived he did an extraordinary job as well."
He also praised Dr Glynn;
"I think Dr Glynn incredibly well stepping into that role as he did."
