Palestinian flag to fly at Leinster House to mark official recognition of the state

International Solidarity Match, Dalymount Park, Dublin 15/5/2024

The Palestinian flag is due to be flown in Leinster House next Tuesday, as Ireland formally recognises the State of Palestine.

Ceann Comhairle Seán Ó Fearghaíl confirmed that the flag would be flown, following a question by Independent TD Thomas Pringle in the Dáil this afternoon.

It comes as Dáil statement’s on Ireland’s recognition of the Palestinian state will also be held next Tuesday.

It comes as Taoiseach Simon Harris confirmed Ireland’s plans to recognise the Palestinian state earlier this morning, describing the day as “historic and important”.

The official recognition takes effect from next Tuesday, on May 28.

Mr Harris described the process as a message to Palestinians working for peace and democracy, that Ireland “fully respect your aspirations to be living freely, in control of your own affairs and under your own leadership”.

“It is a statement of unequivocal support for a two-State solution - the only credible path to peace and security for Israel, for Palestine and for their peoples.” 

Tánaiste and Foreign Affairs Minister Micheál Martin said that the plan was a foundation for both peace and security in the region.

It comes one week on from People Before Profit (PBP) TD Bríd Smith unfurling a Palestinian flag on the grounds of Leinster House last Wednesday, despite refusals from Mr Ó Fearghaíl last week.

Ms Smith flew the Palestinian flag as part of efforts to commemorate Nakba Day, which remembers the destruction of the Palestinian society and the permanent displacement of Palestinians following the establishment of the Israeli state in 1948.

Mr Ó Fearghaíl wrote to PBP, saying that he believed it was “inappropriate” at the time to fly either the Palestinian or Israeli flag on the Leinster House grounds.