asked the Minister for Justice if it is correct, as reported, that Portlaoise prison is about to close.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Portlaoise Prison.
44.
The answer is "no".
Is it true the Minister will keep it open for another purpose?
No; it is not intended to close it.
Perhaps the Minister would clarify something for us: is it proposed to retain Portlaoise as the penal prison or is it proposed to put it to some other use?
It is more than likely it will be retained as the penal prison. Some time ago, when seeking alternative suitable accommodation for the present St. Patrick's, we considered, among other things, the question of transferring St. Patrick's to Portlaoise. While examination of that question has not been finally completed, it is unlikely that any such transfer will be made.