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

The report of the independent review group, IRG, established to examine dignity and equality issues in the Defence Forces was published on 28 March last. The Government agreed to progress the recommendations contained in the report, which include the establishment of a statutory inquiry to identify systemic failures, if any, in the complaints system, in order to ensure accountability and transparency. Draft terms of reference were prepared in consultation with the Attorney General and shared with a wide variety of interested parties. In July, I obtained the approval of the Government to establish a judge-led tribunal of inquiry, pursuant to the provisions of the Tribunals of Inquiry (Evidence) Act 1921, as amended, to examine the effectiveness of the complaints processes in the Defence Forces and to address workplace issues relating to discrimination, bullying, harassment, sexual harassment and sexual assault and misconduct.

I have continued to engage with a range of stakeholders in this process. I have accepted many of the additional terms, amendments and edits, especially those sought by the Women of Honour and their legal team, including their request for a statutory public inquiry. It should be noted that certain terms sought for inclusion are to be examined in separate, non-statutory investigations in line with the recommendations in the IRG report.

The Health and Safety Authority, HSA, is the statutory body responsible for matters relating to occupational health and safety. A copy of the IRG Report was circulated to the HSA following publication earlier this year. I welcome the inspection of the Defence Forces arising from matters in the IRG report, which the HSA recently advised it proposes to undertake.

The tribunal is being established to identify systemic failures, if any, in the complaints processes in the Defence Forces. The terms of reference must be clearly defined to ensure that the tribunal is capable of completing the task assigned to it within a reasonable timeframe. The tribunal will have regard to any and all relevant legislative provisions and this will be at the discretion of the judge who is appointed as chair of the tribunal. Revised terms of reference have been shared with individuals and groups who have been in contact with my office. I hope to meet with the Women of Honour group again this week before I revert to the Government . I intend to revert to the Government shortly to seek approval for the terms of reference and for the appointment of a judge to chair the tribunal.

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