Defence Forces

Tuesday, 29 September 2026

Questions (232)

Gillian Toole

Question:

232. Deputy Gillian Toole asked the Minister for Defence whether four members of the legal team originally appointed to the Defence Forces Tribunal (details supplied) ceased to act during the latter part of 2024, whether by resignation, judicial appointment or otherwise; the name, position and date of departure of each person; the reason for each departure insofar as communicated to her or her Department; the period for which each position remained vacant; and the transparent and accountable process used to select and appoint each replacement, including, in particular, the replacement. [68402/26]

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Written answers

Minister for Defence

The Defence Forces Tribunal of Inquiry (‘Tribunal’) was established by Statutory Instrument on 20 June 2024, (S.I. 304 of 2024), to examine the effectiveness of the complaints processes in the Defence Forces concerning workplace issues relating to discrimination, bullying, harassment, sexual harassment and sexual misconduct. The Tribunal also has the power to investigate the response to complaints made regarding the use of hazardous chemicals within the Air Corps’ headquarters at Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel. The Tribunal is entirely independent in its functions.

While matters concerning the appointment of legal persons engaged by the Tribunal are the responsibility of the Tribunal itself, I can confirm to the Deputy that one Senior Counsel, two Junior Counsel and a solicitor departed the Tribunal's legal team during 2024. These vacancies were subsequently filled.

Details of the Tribunal’s current Legal Team are published on the Tribunal’s website at the following URL: https://www.toidf.ie/the-tribunal-team/