Executions go ahead in Lebanon despite objection by Taoiseach

Three men have been executed in the Lebanon despite a last minute plea from the Taoiseach not to carry out the death sentences.

Bertie Ahern wrote last night on behalf of the EU, asking President Lahoud to intervene to prevent the executions.

He expressed grave concern, pointing out that EU members believe the use of the death penalty is an affront to human dignity.

Human rights groups around the world condemned the killings, while dozens of protestors marched to the parliament building in Beirut to stage a lie-in.

The three men, convicted for terrorism, robbery and shooting, were executed, two by firing squad and one by hanging at 3am, (Irish time), in the courtyard of the prison.

Twenty-four other people are awaiting the death penalty in the Lebanon.