Written answers
Wednesday, 15 December 2021
Department of Defence
Defence Forces
Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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108. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if allegations of a recent sexual assault on an Irish soldier at an Irish military overseas United Nations mission involving another Irish soldier have been referred to An Garda Síochána. [62044/21]
Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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The alleged offences are currently under investigation and for this reason, it is not appropriate for me to comment on the case.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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109. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his views on whether innocent military personnel who are rotating with the current Defence Forces detachment in the Lebanon should suffer a form of collective punishment with newly imposed restrictions as a consequence of the actions of a member who allegedly sexually assaulted another soldier after drinking alcohol; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62045/21]
Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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The incident referred to in your question is currently under investigation and therefore it would be inappropriate for me to comment.
With regard to the decision to employ a no-alcohol policy, the military authorities have informed me that this decision was made by the General Staff, to replicate a policy that has already been successfully employed in other troop missions overseas.
This decision supports a positive culture and working environment within the Defence Forces and will continue to contribute to promoting the health and well-being of our personnel overseas on peace support operations.
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