Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 13 May 2021
25. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Defence if he or his Department in view of recent allegations of sexual abuse in the Defence Forces will consider establishing an inquiry to look into the structural and institutional conditions that can allow this behaviour to prevail; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25110/21]
View answerAll members of the Defence Forces, Permanent and Reserve, have a right to be treated with respect, equality and dignity and to carry out their duties free from any form of sexual harassment, harassment or bullying. These unacceptable forms of behaviour are not tolerated in the Defence Forces.
I urge anyone who has any complaint which they think constitutes a criminal offence to report their concerns to an Garda Síochána. A serving member of the Defence Forces could report such matters via the chain of command or the military police.
Over quite a number of years, there have been positive and welcome developments within the Permanent Defence Force to address inappropriate behaviour. There is now a robust system in place including a regulatory framework for dealing with such matters for serving members of the Defence Forces in both a formal and informal way. Administrative Instruction A7, Chapter 1 sets out the Defence Forces policy and procedures regarding interpersonal relationships in the Defence Forces including sexual harassment, harassment and bullying.
From time to time matters pertaining to allegations of sexual abuse are brought to my attention and I treat these with the utmost importance from the point of view of both the complainant and of those accused of wrongdoing who must have their right to fair procedures protected. The Gardaí have the power, expertise and skills to treat all of those in this process with dignity and respect and especially those who come forward with traumatic detail.
The Chief of Staff has provided me with a report to help inform me regarding matters raised recently in the print and broadcast media and I am considering it. I am all too aware that the history of many institutions including those of the State in regard to sexual offences is not a proud one. Nevertheless, at this point in time, it is my opinion that I do not have a verified persuasive body of evidence in relation to the Defence Forces as a place of work that warrants the establishment of an inquiry. All current complaints are with An Garda Síochána, who are the competent authority in the State to deal with such matters.
Current laws and Defence Force Regulations along with a supportive workplace culture help to minimise the occurrence of such abhorrent behaviour and increase the likelihood that such offenders will be held accountable.
