asked the Minister for Justice if he is aware that a large number of prisoners brought to Waterford barracks recently have from time to time been released therefrom at very late hours of the night, or in the early morning, without any money, and without any previous notice; that they belonged to various parts of the County Kilkenny and were saved from the inconvenience and hardship of having to walk long distances home, or wait in the streets of Waterford until morning, only by disturbing and seeking the hospitality and assistance of persons in Waterford at a late hour of the night or early morning; and if he will state if this treatment is in accordance with instructions issued by the Minister or in accordance with police regulations, and, if so, if he will state what these regulations are, and what purpose they are intended to serve.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Release of Prisoners.
I am aware that in a number of instances prisoners who had been detained in Waterford barracks have been released at night. It has been the invariable practice of the Gárdaí, in the cases of persons discharged after the last train or bus had left for their particular district, to telephone—if the released parties so desired—the local Gárdaí to arrange for transport to bring them home, or alternatively they were offered the hospitality of the dayroom fire until such time as a means of transport to their homes was available. I am satisfied that in no case were they turned out into the streets unless they themselves decided that they wanted to leave the barracks.
What is the idea of holding men until late at night before they are released? If it is possible to release men at 12 o'clock at night or at 1 o'clock in the morning, is it not possible to release them at 8 or 9 o'clock in the evening?
It is possible to release them at 8 or 9 o'clock in the evening or at any other time.
Why has the practice arisen in Waterford apparently of not releasing men until an unearthly hour of the night?
That has not been the practice in Waterford or any other place.
Can the Minister say in how many cases it has occurred?
I should require notice of that question.
There are numerous complaints.