Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy.

I will take the Tánaiste briefly back to a point he made in an earlier response to Deputy Cronin when he spoke about our current relations with the authorities in Lebanon and the sensitive nature of such. In his opening address, he made reference to the tragic killing of Private Seán Rooney. We mourn his loss but we also condemn his murder. In this regard, the very slow rate of progress in determining what actually happened and bringing the perpetrators to justice is to be noted. I note that of the five chief suspects, all of whom were charged, all are free and none are currently in custody. Regarding the chief suspect, I note that the case before a tribunal was adjourned from last December until next June. What representations has the Tánaiste made to the authorities in Lebanon? What assurances has he received that justice will take its course in a way that we would regard as satisfactory? Have we received assurances that the tribunal of inquiry or that the military court will proceed in June and that the reason or excuse put forward in respect of the lengthy adjournment is valid in the circumstances?