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 Air Corps’ headquarters at Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel. The Tribunal is entirely independent in its functions.
In line with the Tribunal’s ‘Procedures of the Tribunal’ published on the Tribunal’s website at the following URL: https://www.toidf.ie/app/uploads/2024/06/Procedures-of-the-Defence-Forces-Tribunal.pdf, ‘the Tribunal will, insofar as practicable, consistent with its duties under the Tribunals of Inquiry (Evidence) Acts 1921 to 2011, conduct its investigation by seeking and facilitating the voluntary cooperation of any person who is or may be in possession of relevant information, knowledge or material relating to the Terms of Reference'.
In addition, and in accordance with section 6 of the Tribunals of Inquiry (Evidence) (Amendment) Act 2002, the Tribunal has requested the appointment of investigators. The request is presently under review as part of the applicable statutory process.
