Defence Forces Tribunal: Member of press office confirmed to give evidence next week

Rena Kennedy's appearance was confirmed on Friday when the tribunal published its witness list for next week, which is expected to be the final week of the current public hearing module. File picture: Leah Farrell/RollingNews.ie

A serving member of the Defence Forces press office is due to give evidence before the Defence Forces Tribunal next week.

Sergeant Rena Kennedy, who has worked in military communications for the past 21 years, is scheduled to appear on Wednesday, July 15. 

She is expected to give evidence about  non-sexual abuse dating from before she joined the Defence Forces press office.

Widely known in military and media circles, Sgt Kennedy had spent 11 years in other roles in the Defence Forces before moving into communications.

Her appearance was confirmed on Friday when the tribunal published its witness list for next week, which is expected to be the final week of the current public hearing module.

Sgt Kennedy is among a small cohort of serving members who have agreed to give evidence to the tribunal and her testimony is expected to attract particular attention.

There is an assurance from the Defence Forces on the tribunal website that states that “no serving member will be penalised by reason of their disclosure of any complaint, complaints of abuse, or complaint of hazardous chemicals at the tribunal".

It also stated: “Serving members who have not made such a disclosure, and who co-operate with or assist the work of the tribunal, shall not be penalised by reason of such co-operation or assistance.”

One witness said in their own evidence at the tribunal that, as a serving soldier, the assurance was “not worth the paper it is written on”.

However, it is understood Sgt Kennedy has been personally reassured they will not suffer any consequences from coming forward.

Also due to give evidence next week is a superior officer of the officer known only as 2LT.B, about whom there have been numerous allegations that he bullied, intimidated, abused, and assaulted apprentices at the Army Apprentice School in Devoy Barracks, in Naas.

The tribunal is also expected to hear submissions on legal costs. The inquiry is projected to cost at least €25m by the end of next year.

Defence Forces Ombudsman Mr Justice Alan Mahon is also scheduled to give evidence.

While tribunal and Department of Defence officials have not confirmed when the current hearing module will conclude, it is widely expected to end next week.