An internal Defence Forces process is underway following the conviction of a soldier who beat a woman unconscious in an unprovoked attack two years ago.
22-year-old Cathal Crotty of Parkroe Heights, Ardnacrusha, County Clare received a suspended sentence yesterday for the attack which left Natasha O’Brien with severe injuries.
Micheál Martin says the Defence Forces have an obligation to address any issues arising from a member appearing before the civilian courts, and said he cannot comment any further on the matter.
The Defence Minister also addressed commentary about the presence of Commandant Paul Togher in court:
"There is an obligation on the regulation that the commanding officer would have an officer in court. One to cooperate with the court if the court requires. and sometimes, an officer can be cross examined, and was on this occasion by both defence, and the prosecution, and to provide whatever material is on the file to the court. But also secondly, to report back to the defence forces".
