Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The independent review into violence and harassment in the Defence Forces published shocking findings yesterday, for example, that women were barely tolerated and many were subjected to harassment, bullying and assault, including rape. Decades on from some of these incidents, the devastating effects for women are still felt. We all agree that brave women who join our Defence Forces to serve our country proudly deserve to do their job safely and with dignity and their rights must be upheld and protected. I commend the Women of Honour and all survivors who bravely stood up to make their voices heard and ensure the truth came out.

I am happy to hear that the statutory inquiry will be judge led – that it is a welcome announcement – but there should be no delay. I want the Government to advance its position, set out a timeline, indicate the scope of the inquiry and, above all else, guarantee that it will be survivor led to ensure survivors' needs are at its heart.

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