Defence Forces

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 December 2023

Thursday, 7 December 2023

Questions (164)

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

164. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he has reiterated to all branches of the Irish Defence Forces, in particular the protection which whistle-blowers should have and that rather than punishing those revealing abuse in the Defence Forces, they should encourage members to come forward so as to end abuse of power and authority, end bullying and physical and sexual abuse; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54403/23]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Defence

I would like to thank the Deputy for his question; Military Management have advised that the Defence Forces affords all legal protections to personnel making protected disclosures and is on record for encouraging members to speak out against abuse of any kind either through official Defence Force channels or by protected disclosure if they feel that is their only option. General Routine Order 07/2015 – Defence Force Policy on Protected Disclosures reinforces the Defence Forces legal obligations regarding protected disclosures.