asked the Minister for Justice if he is aware of the serious concern expressed by teachers' unions and groups concerned with prisoners' welfare arising from his proposal to close educational facilities in Cork and Arbour Hill prisons; if, in view of the implications that this move could have for efforts to rehabilitate offenders, he will reverse his decision and instruct the prison authorities not to interfere with educational facilities in the prisons; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Prison Educational Facilities.
747.
, Limerick East): As the Deputy may be aware, when the decision was made I issued a public statement indicating the reasons — which related to severe pressure on accommodation — why it was necessary to take over, on a temporary basis, the education units at Cork and Arbour Hill prisons and making it clear that efforts would be made to relocate classes in temporary facilities. In the event, it was possible to arrange for some classes to continue at Cork prison without interruption and those classes which were interrupted are expected to be resumed shortly both in Cork and Arbour Hill. The reason they cannot be resumed immediately is that some additional prefab accommodation will be required at Cork prison and some alterations will be necessary to other facilities at Arbour Hill prison. This work will be completed as quickly as possible.