Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 24 November 2022
29. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Defence if he has seen the interim report by the independent review group into the allegations by a group known as the Women of Honour and others; if he intends to publish same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [58290/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, I am committed to ensuring that every member of the Defence Forces is able to carry out their duties in a workplace underpinned by dignity and equality. The Judge-led Independent Review Group, established last January by me, following Government approval, is examining the systems, policies and procedures for dealing with issues relating to bullying, discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment and sexual misconduct in the Defence Forces as well as the prevailing workplace culture.
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 am sure the Deputy will appreciate, this Review is a necessary and critical first step to address the need for a safe work environment for serving members with zero-tolerance for such unacceptable behaviour. The serving members of the Defence Forces expect nothing less.
I have received nine updates from the Independent Review Group including when they asked for a 4th member to assist in completing their work. This request was approved. In line also with the Terms of the Review, I have also been briefed via an Interim Report and at the request of the Group, this is not being published, as its work is not complete. It would be in-appropriate therefore, for me to discuss this Report.
I wish to add that the work of the Independent Review Group is entirely independent in keeping with the Terms of Reference. The Group have full independence and autonomy to undertake its body of work, under its Chair, Ms Justice Bronagh O’Hanlon.
I can assure the Deputy that the work of the Group is continuing and it is my understanding that the Final Report will be submitted to me before the end of the year in line with the Terms of Reference.
I wish to add that the Terms of Reference for the Review are wide-ranging and provide that Government may consider further work on receipt of the Independent Review findings.
I am eager for this work to conclude and would reiterate that the Final Report will be brought to Government, before being published.
