The Seanad is expected to come back from its summer recess to discuss the crisis in Gaza.

The government's due to recall the upper house to discuss the conflict, and Ireland's abstention in a UN vote last week.

The crisis in Ukraine is also expected to feature.

The move comes after a number of independent and opposition senators signed a petition asking for the house to be recalled to debate Ireland's response to the crisis.

Separate moves are continuing to try and force the government to recall the Dail.

Fine Gael Senator Maurice Cummins is Leader of the Seanad.