Martin to raise case of Dundalk soldier Private Seán Rooney

Tanaiste Micheál Martin has said he will raise the issue of Dundalk soldier Private Seán Rooney's murder trial with the Lebanese authorities when he travels to the country this weekend. 

Speaking at the PDFORRA Permanent Defence Force Other Ranks Representative Association  Annual Delegate Conference the Tanaiste said he will be asking the relevant authorities to progress the case, saying:

“I know that Private Seán Rooney remains at the forefront of all our minds, and I will also be using this visit to underline, again, directly with the Lebanese Authorities, the need to actively progress the court case regarding the murder of Pte. Rooney.

“I would like to take this opportunity today to again remember and acknowledge Seán’s exceptional service, and his ultimate sacrifice for peace.”

An initial indictment hearing of persons charged in connection with the incident of 14 December 2022, took place on 14 July 2023 with a further hearing taking place on 30 August.

Speaking in January, the Tanaiste stated that: "On 15 November last, my Department became aware that one of the individuals accused of the murder of Private Seán Rooney, and who had been in Lebanese custody, had been released on bail.

"Following enquiries, it was confirmed that he had been released on bail with the payment of a financial bond and that the release was granted for medical reasons."

The most recent hearing of the court case took place on 15 December last where the Department of Defence was represented by its Beirut-based lawyer while the Irish Ambassador was also in attendance.

Speaking in January the Tanaiste further stated that he was disappointed to learn that none of those indicted for Private Seán Rooney’s killing, including the individual recently released from custody on bail, appeared in court at the 15 December hearing, and that the case has been further adjourned to 7 June 2024.