Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 November 2018
99. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if disciplinary proceedings have been initiated within the Irish Prison Service within the past three years specifically with respect to incidences of sexual harassment and or assault; if so, the number of incidences involved; the rank or ranks and or grade of staff that were involved; the way in which the matters were resolved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46339/18]
View answerI am advised by the Irish Prison Service that the Service is committed to protecting dignity and respect across the organisation and addresses complaints of bullying, harassment, and sexual harassment under the Dignity at Work policy for the Irish Civil Service.
I am informed that in the period referred to by the Deputy, one such complaint against a member of staff was upheld after investigation under the Dignity at Work Policy and disciplinary proceedings were initiated on foot of that. A further three complaints by staff members are currently being addressed under the Dignity at Work Policy.
The complaints concerned have involved staff at Chief Officer, Prison Officer and Prison Administration and Support Officer Grades.
