Seán Rooney: Man sentenced to death over killing of Irish soldier
The death sentence was announced at a military tribunal in Beirut, according to Irish broadcaster RTÉ.Taoiseach (Irish prime minister) Micheál Martin said that while he welcomes the conviction of the main defendant, "it is unsatisfactory that he is still at large". "Many will feel the sentences passed down on the other defendants are far too lenient," Martin said. "Peacekeeping is the most noble cause of all, and the role of the peacekeeper must at all times be honoured and respected," he said. The taoiseach noted that "this is a very difficult day" for Pte Rooney's family, in particular his mother Natasha. "Sean was a soldier of great courage, who put the safety of others before his own safety in the line of duty," Martin said."He was brave and diligent. My thoughts and prayers are with Natasha, his family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time."
Tánaiste (deputy Irish prime minister) Simon Harris said he welcomed the conviction of the main defendant and a number of other defendant, "who had not previously been in court". "While noting the sentence handed down to the main defendant, I am disappointed and share the disappointment of Private Rooney's family at the lighter sentences imposed on a number of those convicted today," Harris said. The tánaiste said Pte Rooney "made the ultimate sacrifice in the noble pursuit of peace". "I appreciate that this is an incredibly difficult day for the family of Private Rooney. None of us can fathom their unimaginable pain and grief and all my thoughts remain with them at this time," the tánaiste said. Harris visited Beirut last March and met with the Lebanese Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Defence. He said raised his "deep frustration at the slow pace of proceedings" before the Lebanese Military Tribunal regarding those charged with Pte Rooney's death. He said the court hearing date was brought forward from September to Monday.The taoiseach said "that justice system in Lebanon, and the delay in progressing in this case, was deeply regrettable".
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