Sir, – With reference to the article "Former soldiers tell their stories of abuse while serving in Defence Forces" (News, March 11th), I wish to clarify that the jurisdiction of the Ombudsman for the Defence Forces is as provided for in Section 6 of the Ombudsman (Defence Forces) Act 2004, which is to the effect that the Ombudsman may investigate and report on a complaint notified to him or her if it refers to an event which occurred within the 12 months previously, and while serving in the Defence Forces, or within 12 months of the complainant becoming aware of the event, whichever is the later.
These time limits are the same for serving and former members of the Defence Forces. – Yours, etc,
ALAN MAHON,
Ombudsman
for the Defence Forces,
Dublin 2.