I propose to take Questions Nos. 101 and 104 together.
I can confirm to the Deputy that the work of the Judge-led Independent Review Group (IRG), established on 25 January last, to examine issues relating to bullying, harassment, discrimination and sexual misconduct, as well as workplace culture, in the Defence Forces, is well underway.
In accordance with the Terms of Reference the Group will:
- Advise me on whether the current legislative frameworks, policies, procedures and practices for addressing incidents of unacceptable behaviour in the workplace are effective;
- Independently assess whether the pervading culture in the workplace is fully aligned with the principles of dignity, equality, mutual respect, and duty of care for every member of the Defence Forces and thirdly;
- Will provide recommendations and guidance on measures and strategies required to underpin a workplace based on dignity, equality, mutual respect, and duty of care for every member of the Defence Forces.
As I have confirmed previously, the Independent Review is seen as a critical first step in ensuring that there is zero tolerance of unacceptable behaviour for serving members of the Defence Forces. Quite simply, the members expect, and deserve, nothing less.
To-date, I have received four monthly reports from the Chair of the Review Group outlining the progress of the Review. I look forward to further monthly reports, in line with the Terms of Reference, including any interim assessments or recommendations on addressing any issues arising which may require immediate action. In addition, it is expected that the six-month interim assessment will be submitted to me at the end of July.
In line with the Terms of Reference, the monthly reports and interim assessment will not be published. The final report which is to be presented to me at the end of the year, will be brought to Government, and will thereafter be published.
As previously advised, I had a very fruitful meeting with the Group namely, Ms. Justice Bronagh O’Hanlon, Ms. Jane Williams and Mr. Mark Connaughton, on 25 April last and plan to meet the Group again in the coming weeks.
The Deputy will also be aware that I received a Report from Raiseaconcern, on the work undertaken by the Confidential Contact Person (CCP), which was established last October as part of interim supports in assisting members of the Defence Forces affected by issues relating to bullying, harassment, discrimination or sexual misconduct in the workplace. As agreed, this Report, which is entirely anonymised, has been passed to the Review Group and will be an important input into their ongoing deliberations.
I wish to add that the Independent Review will include the receipt of the views and experiences from both current and former Defence Forces personnel of workplace incidents of alleged unacceptable behaviour. The sharing of such views and experiences by interviewees will be entirely voluntary and treated in confidence.
The Independent Review Group is also continuing to accept submissions from individuals and organisations on issues relevant to its Terms of Reference. These submissions will also form an important input to the Group’s final review report. Details of how to make a submission are available on its website.
