Simon Coveney receives report on 1981 attack on soldiers in Lebanon

Pte Hugh Doherty died and Pte Kevin Joyce disappeared in action with UN Interim Force

Minister for Defence Simon Coveney has received a report on the death of one soldier and the disappearance of another in Lebanon in 1981.

The report, an independent review of the investigation into the death of Pte Hugh Doherty and the disappearance of Pte Kevin Joyce (Caomhán Seoighe), is expected to be published in the coming days.

The two men were serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, manning an observation post at Dayr Ntar, when they came under attack.

Pte Doherty was later found dead from gunshot wounds and Pte Joyce was missing. The attackers are unknown. To date, no information has been elicited to lead to the recovery of Pte Joyce’s remains.

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The review of the deaths and subsequent investigations was carried out by retired High Court Judge Roderick Murphy, at Mr Coveney’s request.

Tim O'Brien

Tim O'Brien

Tim O'Brien is an Irish Times journalist