Ahern hails new Palestinian government

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dermot Ahern has welcomed the formation of the Palestinian national unity government.

Minister Ahern has said the move, which was approved today, is a positive development.

He has paid tribute to the efforts of the Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to create a political consensus between rival factions and end the violence in the region.

Mr Ahern has stated there is now a significant opportunity, which should not be lost, to build a real momentum for lasting peace.