Forces ombudsman to tackle bullying

RANK and file members of the Defence Forces have welcomed moves to appoint an ombudsman to investigate and adjudicate on complaints, including victimisation, bullying, harassment and promotion issues.

The €95,000 a year post has been advertised by the Public Appointments Service and it is expected he or she will be in place before the end of the summer.

While much of the ombudsman’s work is likely to involve dealing with complaints over promotions, the new office will also be able to probe reports of bullying and harassment.