asked the Minister for Justice if his attention has been drawn to resolutions passed by the Limerick City Corporation and the Clare County Council concerning the imprisonment of Mr. Seán O'Carroll of Castleconnell, County Limerick, and if, in view of Mr. O'Carroll's age and national record, he will use his good offices to secure his immediate release from prison.
Ceisteanna-Questions. Oral Answers. - Imprisonment of Limerick Man.
As the Deputy knows, I have no authority to order the release of a person who has been committed to prison for a contempt of court incircumstances in which the contempt consists, as it does in this case, of a refusal to comply with a mandatory injunction of the High Court in a civil proceeding.
I appreciate what the Minister has said, but I thought that, if the Minister made representations to the E.S.B., he might in that way be able to secure the release of this man. Would the Minister consider doing that? I am sure he would only be doing what every member of this House would like to see done.
Mr. Boland
I do not consider it is any part of my function to do that. Perhaps the Deputy would consider asking Mr. O'Carroll to reconsider his position.
I do not think that arises.
Mr. Boland
I think it is just as relevant as asking me to make representations to the E.S.B.
After all, the Minister is Minister for Justice.
Mr. Boland
That is so, but I cannot do this.
Had Mr. O'Carroll been convicted of some offence I am sure the Minister could make representations.
Mr. Boland
I would have power then. I have none now.
Would the Minister not use his good offices to make representations?