Taoiseach tells UN peacekeepers in Lebanon of nation’s pride

By Rebecca Black, Press Association

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has visited peacekeepers in Lebanon and expressed pride in their service.

The Taoiseach met Irish troops who will be serving at Camp Shamrock close to the border with Israel over Christmas during a visit to the country.

He also met with Lebanon’s Prime Minister Nawaf Salam in Beirut, and pressed him over justice for the killing of Private Sean Rooney.

The 24-year-old from Newtowncunningham in Co Donegal, was killed when a convoy of Irish troops serving with a UN peacekeeping force in southern Lebanon was ambushed and fired upon on December 14th, 2022.

The main person convicted for his killing is still at large, and the Government has described some of the sentences imposed on others over the matter as unduly lenient.

Mr Martin urged accountability.

“Accountability means that the people responsible for the death of Sean Rooney are brought to justice, proper justice, the sentencing was extremely lenient and the people are at large,” he said.

Hundreds of Irish soldiers are serving with the Unifil (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) mission in south Lebanon, which is due to come to an end next December when the UN mandate ends after almost 50 years.

Mr Martin told troops gathered at Camp Shamrock that it was “an honour” to stand before them, and to “personally acknowledge the dedication, professionalism and sacrifice that each of you demonstrates in the service of peace, and your country”.

He also paid tribute to the work they are doing in Lebanon “during this particularly challenging time”, and in spending Christmas away from their loved ones.

Those involved in ongoing efforts for peace are doing critically important work. It is work that we in Ireland and people all over the world hope and pray is successful

In terms of the UN mandate ending at the end of 2026, Mr Martin said Ireland remains committed to Unifil, and to supporting Lebanon, but recognises that the mission was always intended to be an interim force.

He added: “I met the Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam this morning, and emphasised the important role of the Lebanese Government in respecting and protecting the role of peacekeepers, as Unifil works towards bringing peace and stability.

“I also continued to highlight the need for accountability in regard to the person wanted in connection to the horrific killing of Private Sean Rooney.

“I made it very clear to the prime minister the absolute determination of the Irish Government to continue to pursue justice for this terrible crime.”

He finished his address by telling the soldiers he is “immensely proud of the long tradition of Irish peacekeeping”.

“Those involved in ongoing efforts for peace are doing critically important work. It is work that we in Ireland and people all over the world hope and pray is successful,” he said.

“The tradition of UN peacekeeping, in which we have participated for just short of 70 years, is about saving lives and ensuring others can enjoy the gift of peace.

“The work you are doing here in south Lebanon encapsulates all that is good and positive about that tradition.

“Know that the government and the people of Ireland are very appreciative of your service and dedication to the cause of peace.”