Recommendations must now be implemented without delay
The pattern of shameful behaviour identified in the report of the Independent Review Group on Dignity and Equality Issues in the Defence Forces must never be allowed happen again, according to Social Democrats TD Gary Gannon.
Deputy Gannon, who is the party’s spokesperson on Defence, said:
“Today’s report has been described by the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence as a watershed moment. But it will only be a watershed moment if the shocking catalogue of misogyny, discrimination, harassment and sexual misconduct revealed in the report is forever consigned to history.
“The report’s findings are a complete vindication of the Women of Honour group, who bravely came forward in the hope of protecting other members of the Defence Forces from abusive and intimidating behaviour in the future.
“Today’s report must be followed by a complete culture change within the Defence Forces and the introduction of a complaints procedure process that is appropriate for a 21st century workplace – one that offers a safe environment where men and women are respected equally.
“The Minister needs to act immediately on the recommendations of this report and provide clear timelines as to when they will be implemented in full. It is entirely appropriate that a statutory inquiry to investigate if there were systemic failures in dealing with individual complaints will now be established. Those who spoke out deserve nothing less.
“There should also be continued Government engagement with the Women of Honour group throughout this process.”
March 28, 2023