Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy is no doubt aware, section 16 of the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 sets out confidentiality requirements regarding the protection of the identity of a discloser. Therefore it is not possible for me to go into detail in respect of any actions being taken on foot of an individual disclosure so as to ensure that such individuals confidentiality is not breached.

However, as I have previously outlined to the Deputy and the House, the health and welfare of the men and women of Óglaigh na hÉireann are a priority for me and my Department and I am fully committed to compliance with the requirements of the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 and to the protections it contains. To this end, I want to ensure that those making protected disclosures are reassured that where such disclosures are made in accordance with the legislation, they are and will continue to be dealt with in a thorough and fair manner. I have made it clear to my Department and the Defence Forces that the protections for which the Act provides must be afforded to those who make qualifying disclosures under it.

A single civil-military protected disclosures office has been established in my Department, in which all protected disclosures are initially assessed. The office is also preparing updated guidance for issue to all staff, both civil and military, on protected disclosures. This office is something that I looked for to give the full and thorough review of all protected disclosures that come in and the recipients. Together, the single office and updated guidance should ensure a uniform approach to protected disclosures across the defence organisation.

I am assured by the Chief of Staff that the military authorities are fully aware of the protections afforded to its members under the Protected Disclosures Act 2014. In order to ensure compliance with this legislation, the Defence Forces have implemented general routine order 07/2015. This document sets out the policy, procedures and protections afforded to serving personnel on making a protected disclosure. The document was signed on 21 August 2015.

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