The Tánaiste recently visited Lebanon, a country in danger of further escalation due to the genocidal slaughter by Israel in Gaza. The recognition of Palestine by Ireland and other countries is very positive and needs to be followed up with real sanctions on Israel. I ask for an update on the quest for justice for Private Seán Rooney following the Tánaiste's interactions with the Lebanese authorities. The Tánaiste has spoken about his concerns at the slow pace and has said we need to leave no stone unturned. If we could get an update, I would appreciate it.

I met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lebanon in respect of the case. Also present was a lawyer from the department of defence in Lebanon because the Minister was in hospital with Covid. The lawyer was very conversant with the case. I made clear in no uncertain terms our grave concern at the delay in the progress on the case and certain aspects of it. Notwithstanding the separation of powers in the Lebanese judicial system, I pressed the need for us to have a clear process and that it would be transparent but also far more timely that it has been to date.