Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said that there is a “special and unbreakable” bond between Ireland and her country, writes Juno McEnroe, Political Correspondent.

Ms Sturgeon arrived to a near full house in the upper chamber this morning, receiving an applause from senators as she entered the room.

She is the first serving foreign leader of a state to address the Seanad.

Cathaoirleach Denis Donovan said that it was a great honour to offer her the “traditional thousand welcomes”.

Ms Sturgeon thanked the house for receiving her and said it was an honour to be there.

She said there were “special and unbreakable” bonds between the two countries.

The Scottish leader is expected to set out her concerns about Brexit during her speech today.