Irish Defence Forces Tribunal resumes to examine soldier abuse claims

The Irish Defence Forces Tribunal resumed public hearings on Wednesday to investigate claims of reprisals against personnel who reported abuse. As reported by the Irish Examiner and BreakingNews.ie, the tribunal is entering its second public module and is expected to continue into the new year. [1][2]

During the proceedings, senior counsel Gareth Compton questioned Colonel Daragh O'Brien about the internal handling of complaints. According to the Irish Examiner, Mr Compton asked whether a good soldier would complain, but Colonel O'Brien declined to answer following objections from a barrister representing the State. [1]

The Irish Examiner reported that Mr Compton raised concerns over whether the complaints process should be managed externally. He told Colonel O'Brien that serving and former soldiers have repeatedly testified that they have no confidence in the existing system. [1]