Army investigates bullying allegations

Military police are quizzing 40 Army recruits after allegations of harassment at Dublin’s McKee Barracks, it emerged today.

An investigation began within the last two weeks after a member of a platoon claimed he was forced to eat food off the floor, was locked inside a locker and had personal possessions stolen.

Most of the soldiers being interviewed are in their late teens or early 20s.

A spokesman for the Defence Forces, Comdt Brian Cleary described the allegations as “very serious”.

Comdt Cleary added: “The Defence Forces have some of the most robust anti-bullying and anti-harassment procedures and this is testament to the fact that the allegations came to light in the first place.”

The spokesman said the inquiry was subject to due process and that the outcome would be made public.