Cathal Berry Challenges Taoiseach On Knowledge Of Party Members' Criminal Records Amid Defence Forces Debate

Wednesday, 26 June 2024 16:42

By Martin Osborne

Deputy Berry said the Defence Forces cannot change the law, that only politicians can change the law.

Kildare South Independent TD Cathal Berry has asked the Taoiseach whether he knows how many of his party members have criminal records.

He made the remark in relation to regulatory changes in the Defence Forces after Taoiseach Simon Harris said it is "utterly unacceptable" that the Defence Forces is unable to provide information around the number of people serving with criminal convictions.

Deputy Berry said the Defence Forces cannot change the law, that only politicians can change the law.

He argued that the Defence Forces need regulatory changes, specifically powers for suspension and dismissal for gross misconduct, and criticised the government for "inaction".

He suggested that Deputy Carroll MacNeill, the new Minister of State in the Department of Defence, should be empowered to address these issues and review the Defence Forces' regulations.

Taoiseach Simon Harris responded by asserting that no member of his party has a conviction for domestic, sexual, or gender-based violence.

"If they did, they would not be in it. The Defence Forces need to adopt the same approach," he said.

Harris agreed on the need for updated regulations and pledged to coordinate with the Tánaiste and Deputy Carroll MacNeill on this matter.

He emphasised the importance of recent events as a wake-up call to ensure the highest standards in the Defence Forces.

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