Sexual harassment rife in Defence Forces - study

The Defence Forces are expected to strongly defend their gender equality record amid claims of substantial bullying, sexual harassment and sexual assault of female staff.

All but one of the 60 servicewomen surveyed in a study said they have encountered some form of bullying or harassment.

According to a leading Sunday newspaper, 12 of those surveyed said they had been sexually assaulted, but most were too frightened to complain.

The study, which was carried out by college lecturer and retired army captain Tom Clonan, cites incidents of male officers making sexual advances on lower-ranked female officers.

Fifty-nine of the 60 women questioned said they experienced bullying or harassment as defined in health and safety legislation.

In recent times, the Defence Forces have been anxious to portray the Army, the Navy and the Aer Corps as modern forces offering great careers to young men and women.

The Sunday newspaper quotes defence sources as saying the Army will vigorously respond to the report.