Group calls for extension of Defence Forces tribunal deadline

Fear, mistrust and a lack of psychological supports may contribute to Defence Forces personnel missing a deadline to provide statements to an inquiry, a representative group has said.

The Women of Honour support group for former and current Defence Force members is calling on the Taoiseach and Tanaiste to “step up” and provide further assurances to personnel who may want to engage with the Tribunal of Inquiry.

The tribunal was established to investigate bullying, discrimination and sexual harassment within the Defence Forces.

Women of Honour wants the deadline for submission of statements to be extended beyond close of business on Monday September 30.

The group says it has been contacted by several serving and retired Defence Forces personnel who want to take part in the tribunal but have said “fear, mistrust and the lack of psychological supports are affecting their decision to participate”.

It is calling on Simon Harris and Micheal Martin to give a “confidence-building public statement of assurance” that there will be no reprisals against anyone who engages with the tribunal.

The group said: “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.

“We believe that the Tribunal of Inquiry has an exceptional opportunity to make a real difference, however we understand and echo the concerns of many.

“We endeavour to tackle each of these concerns, including the tribunal’s deadline for statements of September 30, which in our view is too short.”