Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 June 2024
135. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the procedures in regard to senior members of the Defence Forces attending the criminal trials of Defence Force members; to provide the guidance given to members of the Defence Forces around providing character references at such trials; and if he would consider a review of these procedures. [27681/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised that in line with Defence Force Regulations, specifically DFR A7, a military representative is required to be present during the trial in a civil court (criminal court) of an accused member of the Defence Forces The role of that representative, which is also provided for in these regulations, is to assist the court if called upon to do so, with any queries the Court may have in respect of the service record of the accused member.
This Regulation outlines the procedures and guidance for the attendance of officers at a civil trial of a soldier. Only if required by the court, will the officer ‘will furnish any information in their possession as to the soldier's character and service’. The information furnished by the officer to the court is sourced solely from the soldier’s past performance appraisal(s) and conduct rating. The officer in attendance does not provide a personal character reference such as would be provided by character witnesses called by the defendant.
The current provisions are kept under review.
