Press release
Tánaiste publishes Report of the Independent Review Group on Dignity and Equality issues in the Defence Forces
Published on
Last updated on
Published on
Last updated on
Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Micheál Martin today published the report of the Independent Review Group on dignity and equality issues in the Defence Forces.
The report acknowledges that the Defence Forces have a proud and rich legacy that is recognised and highly respected at home and abroad.
However, it severely criticises the Defence Forces as resistant to change, with out-of-date HR policies and procedures and simply not fit-for-purpose in tackling unacceptable behaviour, bullying, discrimination, harassment, and sexual harassment.
Publication follows this morning’s Cabinet meeting, where Government agreed to progress, as a priority, the report’s thirteen recommendations, including:
- establish an independent complaints mechanism for serving members of the Defence Forces;
- establish the External Oversight Body on a statutory basis; and
- amend the Defence Act, 1954 to provide that all allegations of rape or aggravated sexual assault in the Defence Forces in the State will be referred to An Garda Síochána for investigation. Prior to the introduction of the legislation the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence has requested the Chief of Staff to communicate to Commanding Officers that this is to be implemented with immediate effect
Reacting to the publication of the report, Tánaiste Micheál Martin said:
“This report is a watershed moment. While it correctly acknowledges the high regard in which the Defence Forces is held, and its decades of peacekeeping roles, it nonetheless, signals the critical need for fundamental and immediate cultural change which goes to the very heart of issues relating to dignity and mutual respect.
“Bullying, misogynistic behaviour, and any form of sexual misconduct is simply unacceptable, and has no place in a 21st century workplace.”
Thanking the Review Group, chaired by Ms Justice Bronagh O’Hanlon for their work, and acknowledging the courage by members of the Defence Forces in sharing their experiences, the Tánaiste added:
“I also want to thank the Women of Honour, and Men and Women of Honour, who have done so much to raise awareness of these issues.
“I will be progressing a comprehensive programme of immediate actions to address the extremely serious shortcomings identified in this report.
“As Minister for Defence, I, and the government are absolutely determined that this report must be, and will be, the catalyst for transformation of Ireland’s Defence Forces.”
For those members, both serving and former, who have been affected by unacceptable behaviour, the following supports continue to be available:
The independent and external Confidential Contact Person (CCP) with Raiseaconcern can be contacted using the following:
The 24/7 confidential counselling service, INSPIRE is available to all individuals who avail of the CCP facility. Callers mention “Defence Forces” when they call and they will be routed to the appropriate person. To access INSPIRE, please call 1800 409-673. Personnel serving overseas can access the service using 00353 1 685 681.
The Personal Support Service (PSS) for serving members. The PSSO and Occupational Social Worker network in each Brigade/Formation supports serving personnel and their families in times of crisis and general difficulty. Services include provision of a wide range of information and advice, stress management, counselling and referral to specialist assistance.
The Chaplaincy Service provides confidential, comprehensive pastoral support and spiritual care to serving personnel at home and overseas. You should contact your local chaplain in this regard.
For those affected by sexual crimes, they should contact Garda National Protective Services Bureau Number: 01 6663430/35: Email gnpsb@garda.ie
The Rape Crisis Centre operates the National 24-hour Helpline 1800 778888 for those who need support in any part of the country.