Trevor Ó Clochartaigh (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

We had an extensive discussion on this petition. We have decided that it is inadmissible on a couple of grounds, as outlined by the Chairman. However, we are recommending that the petition be referred to the Joint Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality which will be asked to examine how the Ombudsman (Defence Forces) Act 2004 is working in relation to serving members of the Defence Forces. We will also ask whether that committee has any intention of examining the 2004 Act as part of its 2016 work programme. We are asking it to look at the issue raised by the petitioner, even though we cannot adjudicate on his individual case owing to our Standing Orders. In addition, we are keen not to cross over into the remit of the Ombudsman for the Defence Forces.