A MAN has been sentenced to death in Lebanon after he was convicted for his part in the killing of Irish peacekeeper Private Seán Rooney.

Private Seán Rooney was killed near the town of Al-Aqbiya in the south of Lebanon, a stronghold of Hezbollah on December 14, 2022.

The Newtowncunningham man, from the 121 Infantry Battalion of the Defence Forces, was killed while Trooper Shane Kearney, from Co Cork, was badly wounded.

They had been serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) when the attack happened.

A number of other men were also convicted in relation to the shooting.

Commenting on yesterday’s conviction, Taoiseach Michéal Martin said: “While I welcome 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.

“The justice system in Lebanon, and the delay in progressing in this case, was deeply regrettable.

“Peacekeeping is the most noble cause of all, and the role of the peacekeeper must at all times be honoured and respected.

“This is a very difficult day for the family of Sean Rooney, 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.

“He was brave and diligent.

“My thoughts and prayers are with Natasha, his family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.”