Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 October 2024
98. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the engagement he has had with the United Nations to ensure assistance is provided to the coroner in examining the circumstances of the death of a person (details supplied) in Lebanon two years ago; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42588/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraSince the events of 14 December 2022, in which Private Seán Rooney was killed and a number of his colleagues from the 121st Battalion serving with UNIFIL were injured. The Government has consistently expressed determination that all of the facts and circumstances of the incident are fully established and that no stone is left unturned to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
On 6 August last, the Coroner wrote to the UN (via the Departments of Defence & Foreign Affairs) requesting access to two reports arising from investigations that were carried out by the UN into the events on the 14 December 2022. The Coroner also requested in her correspondence that the UN become an ‘interested party’ for the purpose of the Inquest.
I have raised the Coroner's requests with the relevant UN authorities, including in my meeting on 25 September last in New York with the UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Mr. Jean-Pierre Lacroix, and urged full cooperation with the Coroner. At the most recent hearing of the Coroner's Inquest on 11 October, the Coroner was informed of my representations to the UN. I will continue to engage with UN in this regard.
