Taoiseach Micheál Martin has expressed Ireland's profound pride in its peacekeepers during a visit to troops serving with the United Nations in southern Lebanon. The Irish premier also held high-level talks in Beirut, where he pressed for greater accountability over the killing of an Irish soldier.
High-Stakes Diplomacy and a Demand for Justice
During his trip, Mr Martin met with Lebanon's Prime Minister, Nawaf Salam. The Taoiseach emphasised the urgent need for justice regarding the death of Private Sean Rooney. The 24-year-old from Newtowncunningham, County Donegal, was killed on December 14, 2022, when a convoy of Irish UN peacekeepers was ambushed and fired upon.
"Accountability means that the people responsible for the death of Sean Rooney are brought to justice, proper justice," Mr Martin stated. He highlighted that the main convicted individual remains at large and that sentences for others involved have been viewed by the Irish Government as "extremely lenient."
Pride and Resolve at Camp Shamrock
The Taoiseach's itinerary included a visit to Camp Shamrock, near the border with Israel, where he addressed Irish soldiers who will spend Christmas on duty. He told the assembled troops it was "an honour" to stand before them and personally acknowledge their "dedication, professionalism and sacrifice."
Mr Martin paid tribute to their work during a "particularly challenging time" and for being away from loved ones over the festive period. He reaffirmed Ireland's commitment to the Unifil (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) mission, which involves hundreds of Irish soldiers. However, he noted the mission, active for almost 50 years, is due to end in December 2026 when the current UN mandate expires.
A Longstanding Tradition of Peacekeeping
In his address, the Irish leader reflected on the nation's near 70-year involvement in UN peacekeeping. "The work you are doing here in south Lebanon encapsulates all that is good and positive about that tradition," he said.
He assured the personnel that the government and people of Ireland are "very appreciative of your service and dedication to the cause of peace." Mr Martin concluded by stating that those involved in peace efforts are doing "critically important work" that people in Ireland and worldwide "hope and pray is successful."
