BREAKING: Michael Lowry claims two-fingers gesture taken 'out of context'

Tipperary North TD Michael Lowry has issued a statement regarding the two-finger gesture he was seen doing in the Dáil yesterday afternoon.

Deputy Lowry was filmed pointing his two fingers in the direction of Deputy Paul Murphy of People Before Profit.

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Deputy Murphy was filming within the chamber as loud chants of "shame, shame, shame..." came from the opposition parties, shortly after the vote was passed to open new speaking slots in the Dáil to allow Deputy Lowry and other members of his technical group speaking rights.

He then panned his camera in the direction of Deputy Lowry, who appeared to make the gesture in Deputy Murphy's direction.

Speaking on the matter, Deputy Lowry says he believes his gesture has been taken out of context, and that there was no malicious intent behind it.

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In a statement released today, he said: "The gesture I made in the Dáil yesterday was not made with malicious intent.

"I made an errant gesture under provocation.

"Unfortunately, the gesture has been taken out of context.

"Unlike others, I have always respected the rules and values of the Dail.

"My gesture was not intended to be offensive or to cause any offence, and I regret that it may have been seen in such a way."