Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 17 and 80 together.

The Government remains fully committed to seeking and securing justice for Seán Rooney, his family and for the men and women of Óglaigh na hÉireann who served with him with pride and distinction. During my recent visit to southern Lebanon, I conveyed this in very clear and blunt terms to the new Lebanese Government, its defence minister and its foreign affairs minister. I understand the issues in respect of the separation of powers and the independent judicial system but the Irish people have been long-standing supporters of the people of Lebanon. We are proud to stand by the great people of Lebanon. We are proud to support Lebanon, its security and the very fragile peace there that we wish to uphold. However, we expect that, after the brutal murder of Private Seán Rooney, heaven and earth is moved to make sure that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are brought to justice. From my engagement with my Lebanese counterparts, who are new to government, I took that our message is understood and our depth of feeling is shared by them as well. I will be keeping in close contact with them and with our embassy presence in the region.

Without wanting to cut across any court proceedings or anything else, there is obviously an obligation on the United Nations as well to support the provision of information in every way possible to the Rooney family. Seán Rooney's family deserve answers and they deserve truth. I will be doing everything I possibly can to make sure we assist and support them in every practical way.

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