asked the Minister for Justice (a) whether he considers the area commonly referred to as the D Block in Portlaoise to be suitable for the housing of persons in custody; (b) the number of occupied cells in that block; (c) the total number of prisoners and the average number of prisoners per cell; (d) the dimensions of such cells; (e) the hygiene facilities and the recreational facilities available in this area; (f) the age of the building and whether the building has continuously been used for the accommodation of prisoners; (g) in the event that the building has not been in continuous use for the accommodation of prisoners, the stage at which it was last taken over for such a use and the time gap which existed since it had previously been used for this purpose; (h) if he is aware of any recommendations made by medical authorities in Portlaoise with regard to the suitability of this building for the confinement of those in custody; and if he will make a statement on these matters.
Written Answers. - Portlaoise Prison D Block.
Limerick East): The D Block in Portlaoise Prison, which dates back to the middle of the last century, has 31 cells. Twenty-three are currently in use. There are in the region of 60 non-subversive-type prisoners accommodated there at present. The prison records do not show when the block ceased to be used as accommodation for prisoners or why it ceased to be used. In 1974 it was brought into operation again as accommodation for prisoners. Bearing in mind the age of the building, the block provides reasonable accommodation for the prisoners and it is being further renovated at present. I am not aware that the prison medical officer has made any recommendation regarding the suitability of the block as accommodation for prisoners.
There are nine cells measuring 13 ft. 6 ins. × 8 ft. 6 ins. × 8 ft. 3 ins. high approximately together with 14 cells measuring 9 ft. 10 ins. × 8 ft. 6 ins. × 8 ft. 3 ins. high.
The hygiene facilities are composed of two toilets, two urinals, one sluice, five washhand basins with hot and cold water in each and two shower units. In addition work is nearing completion on the provision of additional facilities as follows: two toilets, two urinals, one sluice, six washhand basins and four showers. Recreational facilities include piped television, video projector for showing of films and pool tables. The prisoners can avail of outdoor exercise each day in an area adjacent to the block if they so wish.