Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I am grateful for that positive response from the Minister. My request is simple. This needs to remain a priority issue for us in terms of our diplomatic engagement with the United States. Of course, we cannot interfere with their justice system but it is important that we continue to let them know that this is an issue of major importance to us. I would like to see the Minister of State, Deputy Dara Murphy, or the Minister have discussions with the US ambassador, Mr. Kevin O'Malley, when he takes up his position here in the near future because that would be useful. Equally, it is important that we continue to retain ongoing diplomatic connections and contacts with the Lebanese authorities because it is essential that a deportation, if one takes place, is followed by the appropriate arrest warrants being issued in respect of this man.

I had the great privilege some weeks ago of meeting former Private John O'Mahony who survived the abduction and attack. It was a humbling experience to meet one of our peacekeepers who had gone through such trauma to see at first hand the commitment that he has to achieving justice for his two fallen comrades.

It behoves us all here to continue to assure the families and the campaigners that the Houses of the Oireachtas are united in support of the campaign. We want to see justice achieved. One is struck by the principle that justice delayed is justice denied. Some 34 years is a long time to wait to see justice take its course and anything the Minister of State and the Government can do will be much appreciated.

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