"Ireland is today taking up our seat on the United Nations Security Council. It is an enormous responsibility and honour to serve for the next two years.

"When we stood for election we promised to bring the values of empathy, partnership and independence to bear. They will guide our work now.

“Members of the Irish Defence Forces have served under the UN flag with great distinction around the world. We will bring the same qualities for which they are known – determination, engagement and fairness - to the important job that lies ahead.”