Sergeant challenges ban on off-duty soldiers from attending Defence Forces protests

The order made in August 2018 said attendance in uniform or civilian clothing at such events "is not compatible with military service"

Sgt Bright claims that the order breaches his rights to freedom of assembly or to express himself freely. File photo: Eamonn Farrell/RollingNews.ie

A serving soldier has launched a High Court challenge against an order that all members of the Permanent Defence Forces should not attend unofficial parades and protests held on their behalf.

The action has been brought by Sergeant Martin Bright, who is also the Deputy General Secretary of PDFORRA, the body which represents the interests of full-time members of the Permanent Defence Forces.