Barrister and former insurance Ombudsman Paulyn Marrinan Quinn has been nominated by the Government to become the first Ombudsman for the Defence Forces, it was announced yesterday.
Although her appointment is subject to approval by the President, it is thought Ms Marrinan Quinn will officially take up office shortly for an initial term of three years.
"The introduction of the new statutory office of Ombudsman for the Defence Forces and the appointment of Ms Marrinan Quinn are very significant developments in the history of the Defence Forces," said Minister for Defence Willie O'Dea.
Ms Marrinan Quinn's role will be to react to complaints by members of the Defence Forces against other members, or against a civil servant of the Department of Defence.
Where the complainant is still serving, the Ombudsman must believe the complaint would not be resolved within the forum of the military redress of wrongs system.