Army authorities ‘trying to suppress bullying complaints’
The claim comes just two weeks after a major independent study found that more than a quarter of the military had been bullied, including almost 70% of women in the lower ranks.
The discipline case, the first of its type, will discourage members of the Defence Forces from making future complaints, according to PDFORRA.
“We believe this is an all-time first in any organisation - to have disciplinary action used to deter the potential for complaints of bullying,” said general secretary Gerry Rooney
Speaking at the association’s annual delegate conference in Letterkenny, he said the solider in question complained of bullying some eight months ago.
Following an investigation, the complaint was found not to have any basis.
His commanding officer charged the soldier with making a false complaint and found him guilty following a summary investigation.
The soldier then opted to go to a court martial to rule on the matter.
“We fully accept it could well be the case he was not harassed. But the way to proceed is not to subject that person to military discipline. It completely sends out the wrong message.”
Mr Rooney called on the Chief of Staff Lt Gen Jim Sreenan to intervene and review the charges.
PDFORRA said bullying also raised its head whereby people were being “coerced” into overseas service.
Vice-president Andy Mackin said this was despite the fact there was more than enough volunteers available.
Under a new system, a particular brigade is the ‘lead brigade’ in recruiting members needed to serve overseas.
“The brigade, say the southern, fills the quota regardless. There could be 50 guys in the east and 50 guys in the west willing to go. That’s where the mandatory element comes in.”
