Vol. 505 No. 2
70 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to the incidents of bullying or abuse, if any, in the Defence Forces; if he has satisfied himself that adequate mechanisms are in place to prevent this bullying or abuse; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13344/99]
The military authorities advise that they are not aware of any substantiated complaints of bullying or abuse in the Defence Forces. Procedures are, however, in place to deal with any allegations of bullying and abuse in the Defence Forces should such allegations arise. These procedures are outlined in the relevant administrative instructions. This document deals with interpersonal relationships in the Defence Forces and is written for all personnel irrespective of rank, gender or sexual orientation. The prevention of bullying and abuse, or of unacceptable interpersonal behaviour, is viewed as being best achieved by the education of all personnel, by way of talks to troops and inclusion in syllabi of training. Personnel may also submit any complaints which they may have through the redress of wrongs procedure, as provided for under section 114 of the Defence Act.
