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

Peter Ward's function relates to assessing whether the existing Defence Forces regulations are fit for purpose in this context, as well as relating to the military liaison office, and carrying out a high-level analysis of it. There are 68 cases, going back about two years or maybe just a bit before that.

The tribunal of inquiry is going to take a lengthy time. It is going back 40 years already, if not more. The idea we would then extend the terms of reference to cover every civil case over the past 40 years is not realistic, and I say that seriously. We have to make sure we at least get a tribunal that can finish within three years. I am sceptical as to whether it can finish within three years but I hope it will. It is a public inquiry.

We have taken a whole range of measures. There is a sexual ethics programme under way, led by Professor Louise Crowley, in our Defence Forces. I would expect a speedy return from the senior counsel, Peter Ward, and I will publish that.

See this speech in context