Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 October 2023
88. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if a tribunal of inquiry to examine the effectiveness of the complaints process in the Defence Forces into workplace issues will include in its terms of reference the examination of cultural issues within the Defence Forces and the treatment of those arising from having engaged in complaints procedures in the past. [42543/23]
View answer112. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the status of the terms of reference for the judge-led tribunal of inquiry to examine the effectiveness of the complaints processes in the Defence Forces into workplace issues relating to discrimination, bullying, harassment, sexual harassment and sexual misconduct; the timeline for the publication of the terms of reference; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42546/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 88 and 112 together.
The report of the Independent Review Group (IRG) established to examine dignity and equality issues in the Defence Forces was published following Government approval on 28th March 2023. The Government agreed to progress the recommendations in the Report. This included approval in principle for the establishment of a Judge-led statutory inquiry to investigate whether there have been serious systemic failures in the complaints system in the Defence Forces, in relation to interpersonal issues including, but not limited to sexual misconduct.
I consulted with the Attorney General in respect of the establishment of the Inquiry and in respect of the terms of reference. I have also engaged with key stakeholders to the process. Draft terms of reference for the Inquiry were shared with a wide variety of stakeholders who were in contact directly with me.
Having considered the range of views expressed, I determined that an open, independent and transparent appraisal of the issues raised by the IRG is the best way to examine the issues raised.
The Government approved, on 11th July 2023, the establishment of a Tribunal of Inquiry, pursuant to the provisions of the Tribunals of Inquiry (Evidence) Act, 1921 (as amended), to examine the effectiveness of the complaints processes in the Defence Forces to address workplace issues relating to discrimination, bullying, harassment, sexual harassment and sexual misconduct.
I am currently considering feedback received from a number of stakeholders on the draft terms of reference and I intend to revert to Government in the coming weeks to seek approval for the finalised terms of reference and for the appointment of a Judge to Chair the Tribunal.
