Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 December 2021
109. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Defence his views on whether innocent military personnel who are rotating with the current Defence Forces detachment in the Lebanon should suffer a form of collective punishment with newly imposed restrictions as a consequence of the actions of a member who allegedly sexually assaulted another soldier after drinking alcohol; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62045/21]
View answerThe incident referred to in your question is currently under investigation and therefore it would be inappropriate for me to comment.
With regard to the decision to employ a no-alcohol policy, the military authorities have informed me that this decision was made by the General Staff, to replicate a policy that has already been successfully employed in other troop missions overseas.
This decision supports a positive culture and working environment within the Defence Forces and will continue to contribute to promoting the health and well-being of our personnel overseas on peace support operations.
