Delays in advancing the trial of individuals charged with the murder of Private Sean Rooney are “utterly unacceptable” to the Government, according to Tánaiste Simon Harris.
Mr. Harris stated he would communicate this message “in the strongest possible terms” during his political discussions in Lebanon.
Private Rooney was shot and killed in southern Lebanon in December 2022.
During his trip this week, Mr. Harris will also visit Irish peacekeepers currently stationed in the region.
Recently, Israel conducted military strikes on targets within the area, resulting in seven fatalities, following rocket fire from unidentified Lebanese militants into northern Israel.
Mr. Harris is anticipated to announce increased funding for local community initiatives in southern Lebanon—an area that suffered extensive damage during 14 months of conflict in 2023 and 2024.
Tánaiste Simon Harris will engage with Irish peacekeepers during his visit.
Throughout a series of political meetings, it is expected that the Tánaiste will express the Government’s “frustration and concern” regarding the stagnation in the trial of seven individuals charged in connection with the murder of Private Rooney.
At present, only one of the seven has been apprehended.
Mr. Harris is poised to underscore the necessity for “accountability and justice” for the Rooney family.
While speaking to reporters before his departure to Lebanon, the Tánaiste remarked: “I am eagerly looking forward to my visit to Lebanon to meet directly with our Irish peacekeepers—339 members of Oglaigh na hEireann who are serving with distinction in a challenging and troubled region.
“I take great pride in Ireland’s long-standing peacekeeping efforts in Lebanon and it is crucial for me to express my gratitude to our troops in person, hear their experiences firsthand, and engage in various political discussions while there.
“I am looking forward to meeting the defence minister and the foreign affairs minister tomorrow, where I will have the opportunity to address the case of Private Sean Rooney.
“It is entirely unacceptable to the Irish Government that there has been such a delay in the trial of those accused of Private Rooney’s murder, and I aim to communicate this message firmly.”
