Women of Honour call for extension to deadline of Defence Forces Tribunal of Inquiry

Sun, 29 Sep, 2024 - 08:05

Sean Murray

The Women of Honour have called for an extension to the deadline to give statements to the Tribunal of Inquiry established to examine how complaints of abuse were handled in the Defence Forces.

In a statement, the group said it has been contacted by many more serving and retired members of the Defence Forces in recent weeks but “fear, mistrust and a lack of psychological supports” are affecting their decision to participate in the Tribunal.

“While the Tribunal is still seeking statements, we are calling on the Taoiseach and the Tánaiste/Minister for Defence to step up,” the Women of Honour said.

“They need to give a confidence-building, public statement of assurance that there will be no reprisals against anyone who engages with the Tribunal.

It is imperative that Government show their support to our service men and women by ensuring that any bullying or pressures applied to sway or silence personnel will be met with zero-tolerance.

The inquiry will examine the effectiveness of the complaints processes in the Defence Forces concerning workplace issues dating as far back as 1983 and stretching into other jurisdictions.

Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Micheál Martin signed a statutory instrument to establish the tribunal earlier this year.

It follows an independent review group report which found a “discernible pattern of rape and sexual assault” in its analysis of participants’ contributions.

People with information into such allegations have been urged to come forward to the Tribunal.

The judge leading the inquiry, Ms Justice Ann Power, said at its first hearing in June: “This is the opportunity to be heard.”

In its statement Sunday, the Women of Honour – female members who spoke about this culture within the Defence Forces – have said the Tribunal provides an “exceptional opportunity” to make a real difference but there are concerns many have with the process.

“We endeavour to tackle each of these concerns, including the Tribunal's deadline for statements of 30th September which in our view is too short,” they said.

“The Defence Forces culture is one of secrecy, non-disclosure and rule by fear.

The herd mentality that exists, founded on fear, cannot be broken with a 30th September deadline. The Tribunal needs to extend the deadline immediately.

They said essential legal protections are necessary for those facing what is a “daunting and confusing process.

The decision to only award full legal representation to the already fully State-funded entities accused of “countless wrongdoings” must also be revisited, they said, adding that limiting the representation of those wronged is yet another injustice.

The Women of Honour added: “In the meantime, Women of Honour have put in place a confidential legal process with Malcolmson Law Solicitors for those wishing to tell their stories or to get advice on how to do so. Our group are holding online support meetings to help those who need it with statements and we are urging everyone who want their experiences to count to make contact.”