Ireland gets seat on UN Security Council

The council has 15 members, including five permanent members China, France, Russia, the UK and the US. Each of these has the ability to veto big resolutions. Pic: AP

Ireland has won a seat on the United Nations Security Council following an extensive campaign by the government, president, senior civil servants and high-profile Irish figures.

The major coup for diplomats saw Ireland win the prized position alongside Norway, with Canada coming in third and losing out on the race for the two temporary seats.