Mick Barry (Cork North Central, Solidarity) | Oireachtas source

I express my solidarity with the Women of Honour. Their bravery has forced this review. Action should have been taken long before now. Sexual abuse in the Defence Forces was highlighted by Dr. Tom Clonan more than 20 years ago. He has since said:

These problems I demonstrated were systemic. In 21 years, I have never been approached by anybody from the Department of Defence.

Deputy Coveney was Minister for Defence between 2014 and 2016 when this systemic abuse was far from being a secret. No real action was taken then. I welcome the fact that action is being taken now, on foot of these women speaking out so bravely. This must be a thorough review and strong action must be taken on foot of it.

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