Ireland's first lesbian TD has said she hopes to represent the interests of the entire LGBT community in the new Dáil.

Independent Catherine Zappone was one of the 35 women elected last weekend - 40% more than in 2011, and the highest in Irish history.

She is due to speak at a special women's day lunch later today.

Deputy Zappone feels her election is a continuation of the progress made when so many Irish people said Yes in the gay marriage referendum.

“I understand from international research too, I’ve been in touch with folks doing research on LGBT parliamentarians throughout the world that I think I am the 32nd lesbian that has been elected throughout the world to a parliament.”