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Naval Service

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 July 2018

Thursday, 12 July 2018

Questions (46, 47)

Clare Daly

Question:

46. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if the Naval Service has a written policy in regard to dealing with sexual harassment within the service. [31832/18]

View answer

Clare Daly

Question:

47. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to issues with regard to sexual harassment within the Naval Service and-or allegations of a culture of impunity in regard to sexual harassment therein. [31833/18]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 46 and 47 together.

The Chief of Staff provides me with updates on cases of bullying, harassment and unacceptable behaviour, on a regular basis. Defence Forces policy is this area is unambiguous. All personnel have the right to be treated with respect, equality and dignity and the right to carry out their duties free from any form of sexual harassment, other forms of harassment or bullying.

This is clearly set out in the Defence Forces Equality Policy, which pertains to all services and personnel in the Defence Forces. Furthermore, Administrative Instruction A7 (Interpersonal Relationships in the Defence Forces), sets out Policy and procedures regarding such relationships, in order to promote a service environment based on mutual respect, equality and professionalism. Additionally, the Defence Forces Dignity Charter commits to maintaining a "service environment, whether within the state or when deployed overseas, that encourages and supports the right to dignity at work. All personnel of the Defence Forces are expected to respect the right of each individual to dignity in their work environment and in all activities of their service."

All known incidents of inappropriate behaviour are properly investigated bearing in mind the need for due process which requires fairness to all parties to the complaint. Through the induction process and general notifications, the non-tolerance of such behaviour is stressed to all members of the Defence Forces. The formal and informal procedures in force are there to encourage any individual who wishes to make a complaint to do so.

Complaints of unacceptable behaviour can be dealt with at different levels, either by way of an informal approach or formal process. The overall aim is to ensure that any complaint is dealt with, in the first instance, at the lowest level possible. Informal complaints can be resolved directly by the complainant with the assistance of a third party if required. Such third parties can include any member of the Defence Forces who has the trust and confidence of the complainant. Specially trained Designated Contact Persons (DCPs) are also available to assist complainants.

The formal procedure requires that a complaint is made in writing. These complaints are dealt with by the military chain of command either through the legal/disciplinary process or by administrative action.

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