The Report of the Independent Review Group (the “IRG”), published on 28 March 2023 (the “Report”) and established to examine issues relating to allegations of discrimination, bullying, harassment, sexual harassment and any form of sexual misconduct in the Defence Forces, recommended the establishment of an external oversight body in recommendation 4.3.1 of its report.

The External Oversight Body of the Defence Forces (“the EOB”) was established, on a non-statutory basis initially, to oversee the implementation of relevant recommendations of the Report, to increase transparency and accountability in the Defence Forces and to bring about necessary changes to the workplace culture and behaviour in the Defence Forces.