Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

I thank the Deputy. There is a particular poignancy when she raises this issue because I am conscious that she served with distinction as part of our peacekeeping mission. I thank her for her service. I join with her on what is the International Day of UN Peacekeepers in celebrating the vital role that our peacekeepers play across the world. It is now more crucial than ever before, at a time when the global security environment has never been more volatile or uncertain. I particularly think today about the Irish peacekeepers deployed in southern Lebanon as part of the UNIFIL mission. They are not just promoters of peace but also work every day to support communities, instil hope and make a positive difference to people's lives. I was delighted and honoured to visit them in recent weeks.

On international peacekeeping day, I am happy to do as the Deputy asked and confirm that I secured Cabinet approval this week to renew our mandate at UNIFIL for another 12 months.

On the killing of Private Sean Rooney, we absolutely will continue to raise the issue at every opportunity. His family needs justice. There needs to be accountability. That must happen and the Lebanese authorities must bring it about.

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