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Dáil
‹ Ceisteanna ar Pholasaí nó ar Reachtaíocht - Questions on Policy or Legislation

Private Seán Rooney inquiry

Summary

Deputy Ó Murchú sought information on the investigation and legal process following Private Seán Rooney’s killing in Lebanon, including whether the UN board of inquiry report could be shared. The Tánaiste said engagement with the family continued, noted the ongoing court and coroner processes, and said he would come back on the specifics.

I would like to deal with the tragic loss of Private Seán Rooney in Lebanon on 14 December 2022. His loss will be felt by all of us, but particularly those in Donegal and Dundalk, for a long time to come. The Tánaiste has been very clear that all facts would be uncovered and that all would be done in delivering justice. I think "no stone unturned" was the term he used. There has been a huge level of engagement with the Lebanese authorities. That obviously limits what can be said because a judicial process is in play. On 14 July, there were court proceedings. I do not think the defendants were there. On 30 August, there was another hearing but I do not have information on whether the defendants were there. There is another to be held on 15 December.

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Time is up, Deputy.

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I ask for information on that and around the Garda Síochána. The UN has also carried out a board of inquiry. That has concluded and it has been shared with Ireland-----

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Deputy, please.

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-----for official use only. Can that be shared with the Defence Forces or could it be shared with the family?

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Please, Deputy.

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There has been ongoing engagement with the family on this question. Maybe I could talk to the Deputy to get more clarity on the specific asks. There was a UN initial inquiry and my understanding is that that then goes to a board of inquiry.

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That has concluded.

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I will come back to the Deputy on that. The Garda is also involved in a coroner's court. I met with the Lebanese foreign minister at the UN recently to again underpin the importance of justice here with regard to those who killed Private Seán Rooney.

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