Calls for Defence Forces overhaul after revelation of 68 members with charges

Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Micheál Martin has reaffirmed his commitment to transforming the culture within Ireland's Defence Forces, emphasising the need for a zero-tolerance policy towards individuals convicted of serious offenses.

Following this, he discovered a Naval Service member convicted of assault causing harm, who is still serving. This prompted him to seek a comprehensive report from the Chief of Staff regarding the prevalence of civil convictions among active Defence Forces personnel. The subsequent findings were that 68 members are either convicted or currently facing charges for various criminal offenses, including public order violations, drink driving, drug offenses, physical assault, and sexual offenses.

A spokesperson said: “The Tánaiste has been absolutely clear since becoming Minister for Defence 18 months ago on the need for urgent transformation of the culture in the Defence Forces. He is adamant that the Defence Forces is a place where no one convicted of serious physical assaults, sexual offences or domestic or gender-based violence can continue to be in active service.

"Last night, the Tánaiste was informed of 68 Defence Forces personnel who have been convicted, or are currently before the civil courts, on a range of criminal offences including public order, drink driving, drugs offences, physical assault and sexual offences. He also received the report requested on the case of the Naval Service member convicted of assault causing harm.

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