Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is Defence Forces policy that all personnel have a right to be treated with respect, equality and dignity and to carry out their duties free from any form of sexual harassment, harassment or bullying. While military life entails robust and effective military training, such training must take place in a professional service environment that fully respects individual human dignity. Bullying and harassment of any kind are wrong and are not tolerated within the Defence Forces. They are entirely unacceptable in themselves and wholly incompatible with a successful and modern organisation.

I advise the Deputy that this is an issue to which I pay close attention. The Chief of Staff provides me with updates on all ongoing cases of bullying, harassment and unacceptable behaviour on a regular basis.

Of the ten cases referred to by the Deputy, the military authorities have advised that seven were bullying and harassment cases, six of which are now closed while one remains ongoing. The other three cases related to sexual harassment, two of which are now closed while one remains ongoing. The military authorities have advised that all of the ten cases were handled under the formal approach and were dealt with through the legal-disciplinary process or by administrative action.

All known incidents of such behaviour are properly investigated, bearing in mind the need for due process which requires fairness to all parties to the complaint. Through the induction process and general notifications, the non-tolerance of unacceptable behaviour is stressed to all members of the Defence Forces. The formal and informal procedures in force are there to encourage any individual who wishes to make a complaint.

Procedures for dealing with complaints of sexual harassment, harassment and bullying are set out in Defence Forces regulations. Complaints of unacceptable behaviour can be dealt with at different levels, either in an informal approach or formal manner. The overall aim is to ensure that the complaint is dealt with, in the first instance, at the lowest level possible. Informal complaints can be resolved directly by the complainant with the assistance of a third party if required. Such third party can include any member of the Defence Forces who has the trust and confidence of the complainant. Specially trained designated contact persons are also available to assist.

The formal procedure requires that a complaint is made in writing. These are dealt with by the military chain of command either through the legal-disciplinary process or by administrative action.

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