Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

There are three potential outcomes when the Ombudsman for the Defence Forces examines a case. Let us say the ombudsman recommends completely in favour of the complainant. If the Minister partially accepts that, he has rejected the ombudsman's recommendation. In some instances the ombudsman recommends partial redress for the complainant. If the Minister only accepts some of that, he is also rejecting the recommendation. Finally, in some cases the ombudsman finds against the complainant. I had intended to find out if the Minister has gone against any of those recommendations. I doubt it but I will let the Deputy know if that has been the case.

The case comes back from the Office of the Ombudsman for the Defence Forces and is examined by the relevant section or sections. A file, which is usually quite large, is presented to the Minister, sometimes with recommendations or at least with advice as to the procedures that have been followed and the implications of the initial decision and of the ombudsman's decision. Ultimately, it falls to the Minister to make a decision, but it is usually taken with some advice.

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