Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

There is a duty of care. I have taken this issue very seriously and I outlined the process that I put in place upon my appointment. I met with the whistleblowers, the personnel who made the disclosures, and I listened to their concerns. I will act on the concerns they outlined to me in writing upon being given the review. Deputy Ó Snodaigh said there are quite a number of people. I have already indicated in the House that the State Claims Agency is currently managing seven claims taken against the Minister of Defence for personal injuries, alleging exposure to chemical and toxic substances while working with the Air Corps in the period 1991 to 2006.

It would be inappropriate to comment further on the litigation cases that are going forward. However, I am taking the people who made the protected disclosures on this issue very seriously and also the duty of care that I have as Minister of State with responsibility for defence. I assure the Deputy that I will make the right decision on whatever recommendation I make next.

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