asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps he has taken with regard to the situation of an Irish citizen (details supplied) who is currently serving a prison sentence in Dartmoor following representations made by Deputies; and if he will state: (a) the date which he made representations, if any; (b) the response he has received to date; (c) the date on which he received such response; and (d) the further steps he intends to take in this regard.
Written Answers. - Prison Sentence of Irish Citizen.
42.
The Irish citizen in question was arrested in January 1985 and is currently serving a three year and nine month sentence for assault. Written representations were made on behalf of the prisoner by the Irish Embassy to the prison authorities on 4 August 1986. These were followed by discussions with the assistant Governor of the prison on 1 and 17 September.
The prison authorities informed us by letter on 20 August and in the subsequent discussions that they are prepared to consider an application from the prisoner for alternative work should he decide to apply. The Irish Embassy has written to the prisoner and to his family informing them of the representations made and of the response received. The Embassy will continue to pursue the matter with the prison authorities.