Seanad agrees motion to recognise state of Palestine

The Seanad has passed a motion calling on the Government to recognise the state of Palestine.

Fianna Fáil published the motion this morning - and it was agreed by Senators without a vote.

The motion was tabled by Senator Averil Power - who says she expects the Government will consider making Ireland the 135th nation to recognise Palestine.

Senator Power says members of all parties are in favour of a two-State solution in the Middle East.

"It was agreed by the Government side without us actually having to push it to a vote. I hope that signals that Labour and Fine Gael will take a similar approach in the Dáil and that the Government will now follow through in recognising Palestine," she said.

"Ireland has traditionally been very vocal in our support of the Palestinian people, and proactive in lobbying on their behalf, so we should be on the forefront of international effort."