Chief of staff says he had been unaware of abuse and bullying in the Defence Forces

Defence Forces Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Seán Clancy was speaking at Wednesday's commissioning ceremony for the 98th Cadet Class in Collins Barracks, Dublin. Picture: Gareth Chaney/Collins

The chief of staff of the Defence Forces has said he was completely unaware of abuse and sexual assaults against members during his almost 40-year career.

Lieutenant General Seán Clancy said it has only been through talking to serving members in the last 12 months as chief of staff that he has become aware of the extent of bullying and sexual assault allegations.