Former Navy Officer Speaks Out About ‘Raj Mentality’ Among Senior Officers in Defence Forces

Former navy senior petty officer Ken Holland, who retired after 42 years of unblemished service to the State, has spoken out about inappropriate behavior and treatment of subordinates by some senior officers in the Defence Forces in Ireland. Holland, who once compared some senior officers to those living in the British Raj era, claims that a small, powerful minority treated their subordinates almost like slaves and routinely ignored and covered up complaints of wrongdoing. He also criticized the lack of proper procedures and accountability for such complaints. Holland reveals that speaking out against the senior officers could lead to a career-ending move. Despite his concerns, Holland speaks highly of the Defense Forces and encourages young people to join while emphasizing the need for family-friendly policies to be implemented properly.