Updated 3.37pm 

THE SEANAD WILL reconvene this week to discuss the crises in Gaza and Ukraine.

The move comes after opposition, independent and some Labour senators supported the idea.

Foreign Affairs Minister Charlie Flanagan is expected to address the chamber when it reconvenes this Thursday at 2pm

The decision was welcomed by Fianna Fáil Seanad leader Daragh O’Brien, who said that he wants the Dáil to follow the lead of the upper house.

“I welcome the fact that the Seanad Leader has acceded to Fianna Fáil’s request to recall the house to debate the ongoing humanitarian disaster in Gaza and the deteriorating political situation in Eastern Ukraine.

“We need to hear a credible answer by the Minister for Foreign Affairs as to why Ireland didn’t support a UN resolution for action in support of Gaza last week.

“I am also calling on the Taoiseach to confirm if he will allow the Dáil to be recalled to debate these extremely important issues. Under section 24 of the standing orders he is the only one who can request the Ceann Comhairle to recall the Dáil.

We believe the Dáil should be recalled. By suppressing a debate, the Taoiseach is preventing the parliament on behalf of the Irish people from having a strong voice on these escalating international situations.”

The move was also welcomed by Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams.

“Sinn Féin has been calling for such an initiative in respect of the Dáil. The move to recall the Seanad indicates that his should happen as soon as possible.”

First published 7.51am

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