The Defence Forces is accused of being a safe haven for men who commit the most brutal violence against women.
Protests were held across the country yesterday in solidarity with Natasha O'Brien, who's attacker, soldier Cathal Crotty received a fully suspended sentence after beating her unconscious in May 2022.
The Defence Forces is now reviewing how many serving members have convictions for gender-based violence. Speaking at yesterday's rally outside the Dáil, Councillor Ruth Coppinger says the case has revealed disturbing flaws in the system: "What's she's brought to light is the about the safe haven the defence forces seems to be for men who've been found guilty of the most brutal, brutal violence," Cllr Coppinger told the crowd, "That's an absolute shaming indictment and it seems to be news to Micheál Martin who is the Minister of Defence. We need action on the epidemic of gender-based violence in this country."
