Kathleen Funchion (Carlow-Kilkenny, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the women who are visiting the Dáil and commend their courage and bravery. I commend all of the women who spoke up. We owe them a debt of gratitude. Speaking up is not easy to do in any way, shape or form, but especially when dealing with such a male-dominated organisation. I also commend my colleague, Deputy Clarke, on her work on this matter.

Too often, the Dáil debates issues that have negatively affected women. When I heard there was going to be a statutory inquiry, I welcomed it because that will be good. I also welcome that any allegation of rape or sexual assault will be handled by An Garda Síochána, which is important. Many people probably did not realise that was not already the case or understand there was a different system.

I have had a great deal of engagement with survivors of mother and baby institutions. I saw their hope at first when they heard there was going to be an inquiry, but its terms of reference were not fit for purpose and the investigation led to more anger, hurt and questions. I do not want to see a repeat of that. As my colleague stated, we want to see timeframes for the terms of reference, but it is important they be done correctly and in consultation with the women, are fit for purpose and do not repeat of what came before.

I am conscious that much of what has been said in the Dáil today and in the media has significantly damaged the reputation of the Defence Forces and undermines the dedicated women and men who commit to a life of service for the public good. Shame on all those in positions of power who have let those brave people down. Shame on those who allowed female service women to be raped, attacked and assaulted. Shame on the bullies who intimidated, coerced and controlled those under their supervision.

I reiterate my colleague’s call for a timeline, but what is primarily needed is consultation.

The views and wishes of the women must be front and centre, and they need to be respected.

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