The Office of the Ombudsman for the Defence Forces, Paulyn Marrinan Quinn SC, started operations in December 2005. It was set up in response to concerns of bullying and harassment in the defence forces.
Its purpose is to provide serving and former members with an independent and fair appeal for complaints which they believe have not been adequately addressed by the internal military process. Among the key findings of the Ombudsman’s second annual report are:
A total of 76 complaints or appeals referred last year, up 192 per cent on 2006.
67 cases from current members of the permanent defence forces.
Eight cases referred by female members.
30 cases relating to non-selection for promotion.
10 relating to non-selection for a career course.
four relating to bullying and harassment.
three relating to non-selection for overseas service.
29 final reports issued, with 20 cases upheld.