Seymour Crawford
Question:14 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Defence the way in which he will approach the 21 cases of post-traumatic stress disorder taken against the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9259/99]
Written Answers. - Defence Forces Injury Claims.
Frances Fitzgerald
Question:127 Ms Fitzgerald asked the Minister for Defence the way in which he will approach the 21 cases of post-traumatic stress disorder taken against the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9319/99]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 14 and 127 together.
Personal injury cases are taken on the basis that negligence is alleged against the defendants. With reference to post-traumatic stress disorder, the Defence Forces have for some time operated a stress management and PTSD programme, the purpose of which is to educate personnel in stress recognition and to provide support to personnel so that they can deal with trauma and stressful situations in an appropriate and timely manner. This programme is implemented through the Defence Forces psychologist, the personnel support service and the chaplaincy service.
Accordingly, each claim is dealt with on its own particular merits in the light of legal advice received. There are now 18 cases outstanding.