Republic wins seat on the UN Security Council after long campaign
THE Irish Republic has won a seat at the United Nations Security Council, the top table of international diplomacy.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar last night responded to the vote at the UN headquarters in New York, saying: “Ireland is taking our place among the nations of the world and sitting at the top table.”
He said the result was a vote for Irish values.
A “mammoth campaign” to win the prestigious role culminated last night with a vote involving more than 190 countries.
As a result of the coronavirus crisis, social distancing was practised during the vote which lasted more than four hours.
Delegates — including the Republic’s UN ambassador Geraldine Byrne Nason — wore face masks when they cast their secret ballot.
The Republic secured 128 votes and will join other countries like the US, Russia and China on the Security Council for the years 2021 and 2022.
Canada and Norway were Ireland’s rivals for a seat.
Norway also took a seat while Canada lost out.
Immediately after the result, Mr Varadkar tweeted: “We did it! Congratulations Ireland, we’re back on the UN Security Council.”
He praised Ireland’s diplomatic team around the world.
The bid for the coveted Security Council seat was officially launched in 2018 and since then has cost the State in the region of €1m.
Irish President Michael D Higgins, Mr Varadkar and a string of ministers have been involved in seeking support from other countries.
U2 singer Bono has also been involved in the campaign, as has former president Mary Robinson.
The last public event promoting Ireland’s bid was a performance of Riverdance for diplomats in New York last March just before the coronavirus lockdowns that have hit countries around the world.