Simon Harris, the Irish Deputy Prime Minister, is visiting Lebanon to reaffirm Ireland’s commitment to the UN peacekeeping mission amidst regional tensions and to discuss the legacy of Private Sean Rooney. He will also announce an increase in funding for community projects associated with the mission.
Simon Harris, Ireland’s Deputy Prime Minister, is visiting Lebanon this week to reaffirm the nation’s steadfast commitment to the United Nations peacekeeping mission, particularly during heightened tensions with Israel. This visit is significant as it underlines Ireland’s dedication to maintaining security and stability in the region.
During his trip, Mr. Harris will engage in discussions with the Lebanese Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Defense in Beirut, and he will visit Irish peacekeeping troops involved in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (Unifil). A poignant aspect of his discussions will be the remembrance of Private Sean Rooney, an Irish soldier who tragically lost his life in Lebanon last December.
The Deputy Premier is set to express the Irish Government’s profound disappointment regarding the slow legal proceedings linked to Private Rooney’s case, particularly emphasizing the emotional distress it has caused his family. He aims to convey the urgency of addressing these issues during his meetings with Lebanese officials.
Later in the week, Mr. Harris will visit Camp Shamrock, home to the 125th Infantry Battalion serving in the Unifil mission. He intends to communicate to the peacekeepers the immense pride the Irish public feels for their contributions and commit to increasing funding for Civil-Military Co-operation (CIMIC) initiatives, doubling it to €80,000 (£66,724). This funding will support essential community projects, including health facilities, workshops, and educational programs for children.
In summary, Simon Harris’s visit to Lebanon serves to reinforce Ireland’s commitment to the UN peacekeeping mission amidst regional tensions. The discussions will focus on the memory of Private Sean Rooney and the need for progress in legal proceedings, reflecting the sentiments of the Irish Government and public. Furthermore, the increased funding for CIMIC projects underscores the importance of community support and development in the region.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
