Vol. 474 No. 6
31 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Defence the number of cases of redress of wrongs made by command, corps and service in each of the years from 1990 to 1996; the outcome of such cases; and the proposals, if any, he has in train to change the redress system. [3519/97]
I do not propose to change the redress system as I recently introduced far-reaching changes in the system following extensive consultations with RACO and PDFORRA, the representative bodies of the Defence Forces. The new procedures, introduced on 1 May 1996, widened the scope of complaints which can be entertained from personnel and included the appointment of an independent complaints inquiry officer. In addition, the new system provides for time limits at various military levels dealing with complaints. The system is also more open in that the outcome of a complaint and the basis for the decision is conveyed in writing to the complainant. The new procedures are due to be reviewed in May 1998. I am confident that the operation of the new system is proving satisfactory.
The detailed information requested by the Deputy in the first part of the question is not readily available from my Department's records. When the information has been compiled I will have it forwarded to the Deputy.
