Patricia Ryan (Kildare South, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I begin by commending the Women of Honour on their bravery, courage and commitment in sharing their experiences in the public arena to bring about change. Unfortunately, the allegations, while shocking, were no surprise to me. I had read reports on the work done by the former captain, Tom Clonan. I also read the emails that all Deputies receive, almost daily, from retired sergeant, Anthony O'Brien. Many Members will be familiar with the C1 Excel document which details a litany of allegations, including allegations involving male victims and the sexual abuse of children.

There are many sad and sick stories in this document, including that of a female soldier who was raped on her first tour overseas. Her rapist was fined three days' pay. The female soldier was labelled a troublemaker, a slut and worse. She was badly let down by the system that was meant to protect her. She attempted suicide a number of times and became an alcoholic. There is the story of a female sailor who was drugged and raped, which resulted in pregnancy. She miscarried. She told her doctor what had happened and he told her it was her word against that of the rapist. The officer who raped her was a serial rapist who was known for trying to get into female bunks while at sea. He was eventually forced to retire with a senior petty officer's pension and a gratuity. There is the story of the rape of two female soldiers by four soldiers while on a tour of duty in Lebanon. These soldiers had a reputation for depraved behaviour. The two female soldiers had their drinks spiked. They were then stripped and anally raped. The rapists then dressed them again and put them back to bed. There are many allegations that resulted in cover-ups, forced moves, closing ranks and the quiet retirement of perpetrators.

It is clear the current internal system for dealing with complaints is not fit for purpose and fails to protect those who lodge complaints and those tasked with carrying out investigations. In the Women of Honour documentary we heard the story of Ciara who not only had to endure sexual harassment but had to pay €2,500 to buy her way out of the Defence Forces. That is rubbing salt in the wound.

The Government must commit to zero tolerance of workplace bullying, harassment, discrimination, assault, sexual harassment and sexual assault in all forms, and all forms of gender-based violence. The first step is to establish a full statutory inquiry into these allegations. It is time to acknowledge the wrongs of the past and to ensure our Defence Forces are a safe environment for all.

See this speech in context