Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 July 2022
114. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Defence if there are persons assigned to the role of gender adviser within the various branches of the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36647/22]
View answerI have been advised by the Military Authorities that within the Defence Forces, each Army Brigade, the Defence Forces Training Centre, the Air Corps, and the Naval Service have their own Gender Advisers (GENADs). There is also a Defence Forces Gender Adviser based in Defence Forces Headquarters.
The Defence Forces Gender Adviser is responsible for incorporating a gender perspective into the planning and execution of Defence Forces operations and procedures, both domestically and overseas. The role of the Gender Adviser is outlined in the Defence Forces Third Action Plan for the implementation of UNSCR 1325 (Women, Peace and Security) and related resolutions 2020-2024, and includes, inter alia, the following:
- Overall responsibility for the co-ordination of the implementation of UNSCR 1325 and related resolutions within Defence Forces policies, programmes and operations, both on island and overseas.
- Monitoring the implementation of the Defence Forces Third Action Plan for the Implementation of UNSCR 1325 and Related Resolutions.
- Advising Defence Forces General Staff on all matters pertaining to the incorporation of a gender perspective within military planning and operations.
- Responsibility for the co-ordination of gender related training for Defence Forces personnel.
- Responsibility for the nomination of suitable candidates/representatives to attend national or international courses, conferences, seminars etc. in the area of Women, Peace and Security.
- Advising and supporting Brigade/Formation Gender Advisers on the implementation of the Defence Forces Third Action Plan for the Implementation of UNSCR 1325 and Related Resolutions.
- Ensuring the education, monitoring and support, of nominated Gender Focal Points Defence Forces wide.
- Liaising with relevant national and international organisations and representatives, to include the UN, NATO, EU and OSCE on all matters pertaining to Women, Peace and Security.
- Promoting and advising on a gender aware approach to Defence Forces policies and procedures.
The Government remains committed to a policy of equal opportunity for men and women throughout the Defence Forces and to the full participation by women in all aspects of Defence Forces activities.
