Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy will be aware, the Government has agreed to progress as a priority the 13 recommendations of the independent review group, IRG, including the setting up an external oversight body - on a non-statutory basis initially - to increase transparency and accountability and to drive necessary culture change throughout the Defence Forces. I moved quickly on the establishment of the external oversight body, given its central role in driving change and to create momentum around the implementation of the IRG's recommendations. I am determined that we implement the recommendations and that we move on and change the culture within our Defence Forces.

I do not believe that some of the commentary in respect of the oversight body has been fair or appropriate. Its establishment and its membership were approved by the Government and are fully in line with the recommendation in the IRG report relating to "external oversight of the Defence Forces". The review group was explicit in the report on the membership of the oversight body, and it is on the basis of the group's guidance that the Government made the appointments to the external oversight body on 5 April, including the Secretary General of the Department of Defence.

I wish to emphasise strongly that the calibre and combined skills and experience of the members of the body, chaired by Professor Brian MacCraith, are exceptional. I am satisfied of their ability to carry out their important role effectively. The need for the Secretary General to be on the body was recommended by the IRG for good reason and reflects the important link between the external oversight body and the administration of Government to effect the change that is needed within the Defence Forces.

I am pleased to announce that, with the agreement of the Government this morning, I have today appointed Ms Sam des Forges to the body. Ms des Forges is the director of conduct, equity and justice in the Ministry of Defence in the United Kingdom and has relevant experience in the areas of diversity and inclusion, transformation of defence forces' complaints system, implementation of reforms relating to culture, and unacceptable behaviours within defence forces. Ms des Forges's unique personal experience, expertise and insight will be of considerable value to the body.

I will also be introducing legislation to place the body on a statutory footing.

My end goal has to be a safe workplace where self-worth and dignity are actively promoted and mutual respect becomes a dominant feature in an organisation that is open to change. The external oversight body will be a key player in that endeavour.

See this speech in context