Tánaiste provides update on Seán Rooney investigations
He was responding to a request for an update on the matter by Louth TD Ruairí Ó Murchú
The Board of Inquiry tasked with considering a UNIFIL Internal Investigation Report on the death of Seán Rooney has completed its work but a finalised report has not as yet been provided to the Irish authorities, according to Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Micheál Martin.
Responding to a request for an update on the matter by Louth TD Ruairí Ó Murchú, the Tánaiste told the Dail
“I have consistently expressed my determination that all of the facts and circumstances of the incident are fully established, no stone will be left unturned to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.”
He stated that Private Rooney's death is the subject of a number of parallel investigations, including, a criminal investigation being carried out by the Lebanese authorities, a standard UNIFIL investigation and one by An Garda Síochána, pursuant to the provisions of the Coroners Act 1962 (as amended), who are carrying out an investigation for the purposes of preparing report for the Coroner.
After providing an update on the UNIFIL investigation, he continued:
“Each of the other investigations remains ongoing and the Defence Forces continue to support each of these investigation to the greatest extent possible.
“It should be noted that the criminal investigation by the Lebanese authorities takes primacy at this time and is consistent with the obligations of the State of Lebanon under the SOFA agreement with the UN.
“The Deputy will be aware of the recent reports from Lebanon that a number of individuals have been charged with the death of Private Seán Rooney.
“In recent days, we have been advised that the first hearing date for the criminal trial has been set for 14 July.
“Given that this matter is before the Lebanese judicial system, it would not be appropriate to comment further at this time, other than to say that my Department will continue to watch developments very closely.”
On 14th December 2022, Private Seán Rooney and seven personnel from the 121st Infantry Battalion were involved in an incident which resulted in the death of Private Rooney and injuries suffered by a number of others, including Trooper Shane Kearney who suffered critical injuries.