Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 September 2021
382. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Defence the number of complaints, allegations and protected disclosures that have been brought to his attention and the attention of his Department in relation to sexual abuse, harassment and discrimination by serving or former personnel of the Defence Forces in each of the past ten years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43579/21]
View answerThe information sought by the Deputy could not be collated within the time available to answer this question and will be forwarded as soon as possible.
All members of the Defence Forces 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.
I am advised that there are robust measures and systems currently in place within the Defence Forces to address allegations of inappropriate behaviour in the workplace.
Underpinned by a strong set of organisational values, Defence Forces personnel are additionally required to ensure that their own actions and behaviour do not cause offence to others or contribute in any way to a discriminatory working environment.
The need to care for the well-being of its members is a priority for the Defence Forces and in this regard, the Personnel Support Service (PSS) is in place for the use of members and their immediate family.
There is ongoing consideration between civil and military officials on a number of strands of work to advance workplace structures in this regard i.e.
- Discussions are at an advanced stage on the establishment of an independent review to examine current policies and procedures dealing with workplace issues such as dignity, bullying, harassment, sexual harassment and discrimination. The terms of the review will encompass the issues raised n light of the recent programme broadcast by RTE.
- In recent months, the Minister has been in receipt of correspondence - primarily from one source – outlining a number of allegations, including sexual assault allegations of a historical nature. The allegations relate to events said to have occurred within the Permanent Defence Force.
- An additional specific independently led assessment of actions taken to date and whether any other actions should be adopted is also being established in relation to this specific issue.
- The Commission on Defence Forces established in December 2020, is due to report by end December 2021 and their views will also be an important aid to this independently chaired group.
Unacceptable forms of behaviour are not tolerated in the Defence Forces and where there are allegations of offences having been committed, investigations will be initiated by the appropriate authorities.
