asked the Minister for Justice if he is aware of any reports expressing concern at the lack of adequate medical services in Mountjoy Prison; if he considers the present arrangement of having a part-time doctor to attend to the medical requirements of between 500 and 600 prisoners to be satisfactory; and whether his Department have considered the appointment of a full-time doctor as was the case heretofore.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Mountjoy Prison Medical Service.
30.
I am not aware of any genuine concern about the medical service for Mountjoy Prison. Daily visits by a general practitioner are sufficient for the ordinary requirements of the prisoners, the great majority of whom enjoy excellent health. Prisoners who need specialist attention are referred to outside hospitals or clinics and, as I mentioned during the recent debate on my Estimate, I hope to conclude shortly an agreement with the Eastern Health Board for psychiatric consultancy services.
Can the Minister say how he distinguishes between genuine concern and non-genuine concern?
It depends where the concern is expressed from.
I thought that would be the kind of criterion the Minister would employ.
When it is expressed by the IRA or their ilk I often wonder is it genuine.
On this occasion the question came from a Deputy of this House and the Minister's remark is uncalled for.
It did but I think there were certain allegations made elsewhere.