Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 September 2021
384. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Defence if he will consider an amnesty to be afforded to all those who have suffered sexual abuse, harassment and discrimination in the Defence Forces in order for them to tell their stories anonymously. [43581/21]
View answerAll 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. The Defence Forces have processes and procedures in place which were developed with professional guidance and which reflect best practice. These processes and procedures educate personnel, facilitate formal and
informal complaint procedures and provide support for those affected.
I recognise that further work needs to be done in this area and this is being progressed by civil and military officials. Included in this work is the establishment of an independent review, the purpose of which will be to examine current policies and procedures dealing with workplace issues such as dignity, bullying, harassment, sexual harassment and discrimination. Discussions in this regard are at an advanced stage. I will ensure that this review will encompass the issues raised in the recent programme broadcast by RTE.
It should be noted that the provision of information in an anonymous manner raises issues around how that information can be used and care needs to be taken to ensure that information given anonymously does not equate to the establishment of guilt of any individual, notwithstanding the bona fides of those who give the information.
