The Defence Forces Tribunal has heard testimony alleging that recruits at the Apprentice School in Devoy Barracks, Naas, were subjected to systemic abuse during the 1980s and 1990s. Witness Denis Kennedy, who joined the 54th Platoon in September 1989 at age 16, described his experience as “hell,” alleging physical assaults and psychological mistreatment by a senior officer identified as 2LTB. The tribunal is currently examining whether these historic claims warrant a formal Garda investigation into child abuse.
Allegations of Abuse at Devoy Barracks
Denis Kennedy detailed a series of incidents involving 2LTB, an officer currently protected by legal anonymity. According to Mr. Kennedy, he witnessed the officer kicking a fellow recruit in the ribs during physical training and ordering another recruit to eat cigarette butts retrieved from an ashtray. Mr. Kennedy also reported that he was forced to perform exhausting physical tasks, such as repeatedly fetching a ball thrown across the barracks square, after refusing to name fellow recruits who were late. He stated that he eventually suffered from heat stroke and dehydration during this ordeal.
The 54th Platoon at Devoy Barracks included 55 recruits in total, comprised of 13 16-year-olds, 22 17-year-olds, and 20 18-year-olds.
Institutional Awareness and Legal Denials
Mr. Kennedy testified that the abuse was widely known among the staff at the barracks. When questioned by senior counsel Michael Cush, Mr. Kennedy asserted that officers, including those at the rank of lieutenant colonel, would have been aware of the conduct. However, the tribunal heard that the unnamed commanding officer has denied having any knowledge of the abuse, specifically regarding the treatment of Oliver Mullaney. Mr. Mullaney died by suicide on June 22, 1991, two days after he was allegedly humiliated by 2LTB. Legal representative Tom Hogan, appearing for 2LTB, stated that his client denies all allegations of abuse and noted that nothing has been proven before the tribunal.
The transition from tribunal testimony to potential criminal proceedings represents a significant escalation. When agencies like Tusla classify past military training practices as “historic child abuse,” it shifts the focus from administrative oversight to potential criminal liability, which may fundamentally change how the Defence Forces address historical accountability.
Potential for a Garda Investigation
The possibility of a Garda investigation into these events has emerged following guidance from Tusla, the child and family agency. Mr. Kennedy testified that his therapist contacted Tusla, which subsequently advised that his experiences should be reported to the authorities as child abuse. Ms. Justice Ann Power, the sole member of the tribunal, heard that recruits were previously instructed to label Mr. Mullaney’s death as an “accident” to ensure his family could access army insurance. Mr. Kennedy indicated that while he intends to wait for the conclusion of the current tribunal, he is now considering reporting the abuse to the Gardaí, noting that he is likely not the only former recruit to do so.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the officer identified as 2LTB?
2LTB is a senior officer from the Apprentice School whose identity is currently protected for legal reasons. He denies all allegations of abuse brought against him.
What was the official response to the death of Oliver Mullaney?
According to Mr. Kennedy, recruits were told by a senior officer to refer to the death as an “accident” rather than suicide to ensure the victim’s family remained eligible for army insurance.
What is the next potential step for these abuse claims?
The tribunal has heard that Tusla recommended reporting the alleged abuse to the Gardaí. Witness Denis Kennedy has stated he is considering making such a report once the tribunal proceedings have concluded.
How might the formal recognition of these events as “historic child abuse” impact the ongoing tribunal process?
