Defence Forces Tribunal hears chaplain told 17‑year‑old rape victim to “forget about it”

An army chaplain allegedly told a 17‑year‑old soldier who was sexually assaulted in Munster in 1970 to “forget about it” and move on, the Defence Forces Tribunal heard.

The victim, a former private now married with a family, gave evidence behind a screen. He recounted being taken to a sergeant’s office after a night of training, waking five hours later half‑naked with the sergeant on top of him. He did not report the assault until 1995, after experiencing nightmares and flashbacks.

Following medical advice, he approached the Gardaí in 1995‑96. At Collins Barracks, a chaplain arrived in his car. When the victim said he had been seriously sexually assaulted and wanted to make a complaint, the chaplain replied that the best course was to “forget all about it and get on with your life” and then left the vehicle.

The tribunal heard the chaplain did not follow up the matter, and the victim received no further assistance. Another former soldier testified to repeated assaults by the same sergeant, describing a pattern of abuse and a lack of belief when reporting.

Criminal proceedings against the sergeant resulted in partial acquittals, and the Director of Public Prosecutions decided not to pursue remaining charges. A civil action relating to assaults in the 1980s was also unsuccessful.

Source: Irish Examiner. Photo: Following NYC / Pexels.