A second soldier has been seriously injured
An Irish soldier has been killed and a second seriously injured in a serious incident in Lebanon.
They were among 8 Irish personnel travelling in a convoy of armoured vehicles which came under attack.
23 year old Private Sean Rooney from County Donegal died after a convoy travelling to Beirut was attacked.
22 year old private Shane Kearney from Killeagh in County Cork was seriously injured.
A statement from the Defence Forces this morning outlines the tragic events which unfolded in Lebanon.
8 Irish soldiers were travelling to Beirut in convoy of two Armoured Utility Vehicles when they came under small arms fire just after 9 o'clock last night Irish time.
Four soldiers were rushed to Raee Hospital near Sidon.
One was pronounced dead on arrival, a second was rushed to surgery and is now in a serious condition.
The two others were treated for minor injuries, while the other 4 Irish soldiers were not injured and are safe and accounted for.
In a statement the Defence Minister says he learned of the death of the Irish soldier with 'profound sadness and a deep sense of shock'.
Simon Coveney 's expressed 'utmost sorrow' on behalf of the people of Ireland and says a full investigation must be carried out.